Item 26-268

This is a wonderful example of an antique French wooden folding ruler, sometimes called a règle pliante, dating to approximately 1890–1925. 

It is the sort of practical measuring tool that would have been used by carpenters, cabinetmakers, builders, tailors, or merchants throughout France before metal tape measures became commonplace.

This well worn ruler is made from boxwood or beech, both favoured for measuring tools because they are hard-wearing and resist warping. 

It consists of folding sections joined by riveted pivot joints, allowing it to collapse into a compact size for carrying in a pocket or tool bag. 

The graduations are in centimetres, reflecting France’s adoption of the metric system during the nineteenth century.