Lodestone

Lodestone within a turned cylindrical ivory box. The keeper is in a separate section of the box, which unscrews from one end. The lodestone itself is contained within a brass case, screwed into the lid of the ivory box. The brass case is engraved with leaf motifs and marked on one side 'POLVS/ ANTARCTI/CVS' [Polus Antarcticus - South Pole], and on the opposite side 'POLVS/ ARCTICVS' [Polus Arcticus - North Pole]. The left side is engraved with the words 'Magnetis pondus est uncia .1' [the weight of this magnet is 1 ounce], the right side is engraved 'Magnes hic trahit usque ad libras .10' [this magnet lifts up to 10 pounds]. The lodestone and the case for the keeper are both cracked.