Inverted maritime compass called "mouchard" (spy) in wood and brass, signed "A Van Vastenhoud In Amsterdam". This type of compass was found in the captain's cabin and hanging above the captain's bed. The captain was so able to see the direction when he was in his cabin. This example is mounted in a wooden box to keep it safe. The compass itself is mounted on brass gimbals to keep it steady on a moving ship. It has a single iron needle with a brass cap that rests on a spike projecting from the bo...