Tunbridge Ware Thermometer in the Form of Cleopatra’s Needle c1885

Description

Heading : Tunbridge war thermometer in the form of Cleopatra’s needle
Date : c1885
Period : Victoria
Origin : Tunbridge Wells. Kent
Decoration : In the form of an obelisk (specifically Cleopatra’s needle) with geometric and naturalistic tesselated mosaics banding and images to the various faces.
Size :  20.5cm height. 6.5×6.5cm base
Condition : Ten missing tesserae within the keyline on leading edge. obelisk is a little loose on the base. Thermometer is working
Restoration : None
Weight :  92 grams

These have previously been described as simply obelisk style. However. we consider it beyond doubt that the fact that this particular design became widespread around the time that one of Cleopatra’s Needles. the most famous pair of obelisks in the world. arrived in London strongly suggests that this is indeed based on the Embankment monument.