Roman level with plumb bob

Roman level with plumb bob
ITEM: Level with plumb bob
MATERIAL: Bronze
CULTURE: Roman
PERIOD: 4th - 5th Century A.D
DIMENSIONS: 120 mm x 92 mm
CONDITION: Good condition
PROVENANCE: Ex European private collection, acquired before 2000s

Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and Export Licence. If you are from outside the European Union, we will have to apply for the export licence again for your country, this takes 3 to 5 weeks and has a cost of 5% of the hammer price, this amount will be added to the final invoice.

The Roman level, often used in conjunction with a plumb bob, was a tool essential to Roman engineering and construction, allowing builders to establish precise horizontal lines. This simple yet effective instrument typically consisted of a wooden or metal frame in the shape of an “A” or a right triangle, with a string and plumb bob suspended from the apex. By observing where the plumb line intersected with markings on the frame, Roman engineers could verify that their structures were level, an essential step for everything from roads and aqueducts to temples and public buildings. This tool’s straightforward design and functionality exemplify the Romans' ability to achieve architectural precision with basic technology.

The use of the Roman level with a plumb bob was integral to the construction of Rome’s architectural masterpieces. This tool helped achieve the structural stability seen in roads, aqueducts, and multi-story buildings, where maintaining horizontal lines was critical for even weight distribution. The Roman level was particularly useful in large-scale civil engineering projects, such as the construction of aqueducts, which required precise gradients over long distances to ensure water flow. By using the level to maintain a consistent angle, engineers could create a slight slope that allowed water to flow across valleys and plains, providing urban centers with reliable water access. This simple tool thus played a role in sustaining the infrastructure that fueled the Roman Empire’s growth.

Measurement:

9.2 x 12 cm