Antique marine lead line designed for accurately determining the depth and type of sea or river bottom in shallow waters. The lead line is attached to a measuring cord wound on a wooden reel, with the cord itself marked at regular intervals with small coloured flags. These serve as visual depth markers, allowing sailors to determine how deep the lead line has sunk.
The lead line has a cavity at the bottom for inserting grease such as beef tallow. Upon contact with the bottom, a sample of sediment – sand, mud, gravel or shells – sticks to the grease, providing information about the nature of the sea or river bottom.
The lead lines are in excellent condition and fully usable. A unique collector's item.
