Rare Pair of Barrodale Drawing-Code Rulers c. 1890-1915 | Victorian Boxwood Drafting Instruments

For the technician …  a rare matched pair of English boxwood “Drawing-Code” rulers, manufactured by E. Preston & Sons of Birmingham and dating to circa 1890-1915.  Designed by T.H. Barrodale, the rulers were intended for architectural, engineering, and technical drawing work, and feature multiple proportional scales and angular reference markings.  A superb surviving example of Victorian/Edwardian drafting instruments, they would make a striking display on a gentleman’s desk or library shelf.

Both rulers bear the registered design number 97038, which dates the original Barrodale design to 1888.  They are also marked “APPROVED BY THE SCIENCE AND ART DEPARTMENT SOUTH KENSINGTON,” a reference to the British government department that from 1853-1899 oversaw instruction in industrial art, engineering, and technical drawing. Particularly notable is the fact that the pair represents two distinct variations of the same Barrodale design.

Ruler #1 (larger type, darker patina): 9-5/16" x 1-3/8" x 5/32"; Weight 0.4 oz. 
Ruler #2 (smaller type, lighter patina): 9-3/16" x 1-3/8" x 5/32"; Weight 0.3 oz.

Condition Notes: Both rulers remain in excellent antique condition overall, retaining a rich patina and crisp, legible markings throughout. Surfaces show expected light wear consistent with age and use, including scattered surface marks, edge wear, darkening, and minor discoloration.  No major cracks, chips, repairs, or structural issues noted to either ruler. Graduations, lettering, and angular reference markings remain clear and easy to read. Both rulers retain clear markings reading:

T.H. BARRODALE’S COMPLETE DRAWING-CODE RULER
PATENT RD NO 97038
E. PRESTON & SONS MANUFRS BIRMM TRADE MARK
APPROVED BY THE SCIENCE AND ART DEPARTMENT SOUTH KENSINGTON

See photos for more detail and feel free to contact the shop with any questions before purchase. Other items shown in photos not included.

All items are hand-wrapped and packed with care for secure delivery.  We offer flat rate shipping via USPS Ground Advantage for $10, or USPS Priority Mail for $15. Orders over $100 (not including taxes) ship free via USPS Priority Mail — any shipping charges for orders over $100 will be refunded after checkout. We pack using recycled and recyclable materials whenever possible.

Sorry, no returns or cancellations.  Please view all photos for more detail and feel free to contact the shop with any questions prior to purchase.

For more unique gift ideas, visit our shop at: https://pickessandparr.etsy.com
Find us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/pickessandparr 
Find us on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/pickessandparr

#victoriantools #technicaldrawing #scientificinstruments #antiquetools #engineering