Alphonse Bertillon's orthometer. [France] s.n. ca. 1895 Brass, 3 separate measuring instruments, numbered "207" in 2 places, unsigned, but engraved "Breveté SGDG", i.e. "sans garantie du gouvernement". Wooden case (49,5 x 42 cm) lined with red velvet (sl. used). Rare brass device that measured the face and head, and in particular the protrusion or retraction of the eyeballs, designed by A. Bertillon (1853-1914) and used as a criminal identification tool before it was superseded by more accurate fingerprinting. Prior to modern technologies, the Bertillon system of measurement (also known as Bertillonage) was considered the most reliable means for forensic recognition. Ref. Science Museum Group. Joined: 1. Craniograph. Brass, 33 x 17 cm. Signed "Baudouin Professeur". 19th c. - 2. Anthropometric devise. Chromed, 33,5 cm. Signed "Aesculap", "J. Vandendaelen". - 3. Brass measuring instruments, comprising 11 items of different sizes, possibly anthropometric. Wooden box. (4 pcs)