Weighing Device thumbnail 1
Not currently on display at the V&A

Weighing Device

ca. 1950 (made)
Artist/Maker
Place of origin

This weighing device was used to measure the weight of newborn babies. It comprises of a string net holder for the baby to lie in and a metal spring balance. It was simple to use and easy to transport. This device was used in the 1950's to weigh two sisters who grew up in Sutton Coldfield in the West Midlands.


Object details

Category
Object type
Materials and techniques
Knotted string and stamped metal
Brief description
For a baby: string mesh holder suspended from a sprung weighing scale; Portia brand made in England, ca. 1950
Physical description
A brown string mesh holder with two metal rings at each end. These rings attach on to a metal spring balance that is imprinted with the maker's name and place of manufacture.
Dimensions
  • Maximum length: 83.5cm
  • Maximum width: 25cm
Production typeMass produced
Marks and inscriptions
  • 'Portia Read.' (Makers mark)
  • 'Baby Balance / Made in England'
Credit line
Given by Annabelle Hicks
Object history
This baby weighing device was used to weigh Rosemary Moss (born 15.1.1951) and Annabelle Moss (born 17.8.1953) who grew up in Sutton Coldfield in the West Midlands. It was kept by their mother as a precious keepsake, and was only rediscovered after her death in 2009.
Summary
This weighing device was used to measure the weight of newborn babies. It comprises of a string net holder for the baby to lie in and a metal spring balance. It was simple to use and easy to transport. This device was used in the 1950's to weigh two sisters who grew up in Sutton Coldfield in the West Midlands.
Collection
Accession number
B.246-2009

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Record createdMay 28, 2010
Record URL
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