Dating to the mid 19th century, this brass cased green card prismatic compass was made by Elliott Bros and is printed 'ELLIOTT BROS, STRAND, LONDON' on the dial around the pivot.

The founder, William Elliott, formed a partnership with his sons Frederick & Charles in 1850, and the firm became known as Elliott & Sons, but the name was changed to Elliott Bros in 1854 after William retired in 1853.

On the underside is etched ‘L.G. Cotton.’ in an elegant script, which is presumably the name of the original owner. In good working order, including the transit lock, which is activated by the folding sight vane, the cosmetic condition is good, with no dings or dents, and the floating green card dial pivots on a gemstone bearing beneath a clean crystal.

Although the front prismatic viewer no longer has the brass swivel dust cover, this is a quality antique instrument measuring “2⅞" (75 mm) in diameter and comes in its original leather case, which compensates for the missing protective brass lid, and has the initials 'L.G.C.' debossed into the side (see photo).

The compass and case combined weigh just over 230 grams.