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Drafting Set Ruling Pen

Manufacturer / MakerCreated by Kneuffel J. Esser Co.

Dateca. 1920

Mediumleather, velvet, steel

Dimensionscase: 4 1/2 × 9 1/2 × 3/4 in. (11.4 × 24.1 × 1.9 cm)
ruling pen: 5 1/2 × 1/4 × 1/2 in. (14 × 0.6 × 1.3 cm)
handle: 4 1/4 × 1/4 × 3/8 in. (10.8 × 0.6 × 1 cm)
pencil lead case: 1 1/2 × 1/4 × 1/4 in. (3.8 × 0.6 × 0.6 cm)
ruling pen head: 3 1/8 × 1/4 × 1/2 in. (7.9 × 0.6 × 1.3 cm)
pencil compass: 6 × 5/8 × 1/2 in. (15.2 × 1.6 × 1.3 cm)
divider: 5 7/8 × 1/2 × 1/2 in. (14.9 × 1.3 × 1.3 cm)
compass ruling pen: 3 3/4 × 1 × 1/4 in. (9.5 × 2.5 × 0.6 cm)
divider with hinge: 3 3/4 × 1 × 1/4 in. (9.5 × 2.5 × 0.6 cm)
pencil compass with hinge: 3 3/4 × 1 × 1/4 in. (9.5 × 2.5 × 0.6 cm)

ClassificationsTools, Implements & Weights

Credit LineAlbuquerque Museum, gift of Sylvia Ingalls for the Gatignol Estate

Object numberPC1978.96.34.A

DescriptionThis drafting tool set for making technical drawings and blueprints, made by the Keuffel & Esser Co. (known as K&E), is housed in a rectangular black case lined with vibrant blue velvet. The interior features custom compartments that secure nine precision tools, each with a sleek silver metallic finish. These include compasses, dividers, ruling pens, and attachments, reflecting the meticulous nature of early 20th-century drafting. On the inside cover, the words “MINUSA / MADE IN U.S.A. / PAT. 2,173,366 / KEUFFEL & ESSER CO.” are printed in gold lettering, signifying the set's manufacturer. Established in 1867, Keuffel & Esser was a leading American maker of precision instruments, serving engineers, architects, and surveyors. Drafting sets like this were indispensable for technical drawings before the advent of digital tools, underscoring their importance in fields such as architecture, cartography, and engineering. This set highlights the craftsmanship and attention to detail that defined professional tools of its time. One of the objects, a ruling pen, is slim and elongated, tapering toward the finely crafted steel nib. The handle transitions seamlessly into the metal portion, which includes a small circular plate marked with the manufacturer’s name, “K&E Co. USA,” stamped in clear, uppercase lettering. The nib is comprised of two flat steel blades that can be adjusted for line thickness using the screw mechanism. This pen reflects the evolution of technical drawing tools before the digital age, showcasing a balance of elegance and practicality.

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