Indian Iron Weighing Scale

Hooks swing wide and a chained weight trails at the foot of this lanky dark rod.

This iron weighing scale is from India, and dates to the early 20th century. A balance scale compares an object against a set of known weights, and such scales were a basic tool of market trade across South Asia. Tall, thin dark shaft with a small cup-like cap at the top. Curved hooks and a loose ring spread out near the upper end, and a rounded weight hangs from a short chain at the bottom. It is 38.25 inches wide.

Odd, angular, and very sure of what it is for.