The Compass from the Duke of Hamilton's Steam Yacht Thistle, A brass and mahogany boat compass, Dent & Co., London, circa 1892

Property of a descendant of William Beckford & The Dukes of Hamilton
A brass and mahogany boat compass, Dent & Co., London, circa 1892

4½-inch mica black and white card marked with quarter points, the verge painted white and with a black lubber line, the liquid-filled gimballed brass bowl black japanned and signed E Dent & Co, London, Boat Compass No.44189, contained within a binnacle with tapered top, bevel-glaze viewing window flanked by an oil lamp and slide cover, the top with turned ebonised handle, the base with hinged door signed and number on the edge as the compass, the paper instruction sheet inscribed 12 Dec 92, the interior with gimbal locking mechanism
14¾in.; 37.5cm. high

Condition Report:
Very dirty throughout. Card and bowl in good condition, bevel-glazed panel in good condition though very dirty. All brass very tarnished. Mahogany base has a crack to the right side and damage to the lower front edge other wise good but very dirty. All with old scuffs and markes throughout.

Provenance:
Probably acquired by William, 12th Duke of Hamilton (1845-1895) for his steam yacht Thistle;
Thence by descent.

The Thistle, the second yacht by that name in the 12th Duke's possesion, was built in 1881 and sold upon his death in 1895 to settle debts on his estates. The Duke, asides from making regular visits to Cowes, travelled extensively in his yacht. It was also an important means for him and his entourage to travel to his estate and Castle on Arran.