Thai Dotchin Scales

Fine & Rare Set of Dotchin Scales & Weight in a Mother-of-Pearl Lacquered Box

This fine set of dotchin scales comprises the single-pan scales with a fine, marked ivory beam; a small, elegantly-formed weight; and a violin-shaped lacquer box that comprises two hinged halves. The suspension cords are of red silk.

The ivory beam is delicately engraved with graduations. The weight is rectangular but has a frilly embellishment which gives it the appearance of a poppy bud.

The scale and weight are contained in the case which is of lacquered wood, and finely inlaid with mother-of-pearl and silver wire. The mother-of-pearl pattern differs on both sides, but is among the finest we have seen. The two halves of the case are held together by means of a brass pin with brass covers that incorporate a Chinese ‘cash’ motif.

Such scales were used for weighing small quantities of high-value items such as opium, gold dust, precious stones, and medicines.

Scales such as this example originated in China and were first mentioned in western literature in the seventeenth century, as d

otchin scales, based on their Chinese name.

Delalande, D. & E., Memoires d’Opiums/Memories of Opium, Somogy editions, 2011.

private collection, UK