Balance standard with a counterweight
Originally two little pans hung on long cords from the ends of the lower crosspiece: one for the precious objects to be weighed, and the other for the weights. The counterweight is connected with a cord to the hinge at the top via the little wheel at the bottom of the stem. By sliding the counterweight closer to the foot of the scales, the balance can be adjusted, allowing different metals and precious stones to be weighed.