The unknown object

Sometimes we come across an object in our collection whereof were not sure what it is. Can you help us? 

This cone-shaped object is 32 cm tall and 15 cm in diameter. It is made of metal and weighs nearly 8 kg! Its pointed tip suggests it might be something used for stamping, but we aren’t sure...

In the meantime, we have received many responses to this object; these were your ideas:

 

 

 

  • A lightning conductor for meteorological equipment (Lightning Protection Terminal). Due to the non-magnetic material and the aerodynamic, stepped shape with the sharp point, the object resembles an early Early Streamer Emission (ESE) lightning conductor. 

 

  • Meteorological mast counterweight: The flat side with screw holes suggests that it was mounted tightly against a pole or wall. It could therefore also be an aerodynamic counterweight to balance heavy anemometers on a mast against wind pressure.

 

  • Metalworking mold (Sheet Metal Spinning / Punch tool): The solid shape may have been a mold (die/mandrel) for spinning or forming sheet metal, as explained on this page about Metal Spinning.

 

  • This looks like it could be a head for a Foucault's pendulum, with the slim tip to drag its lines through the sand, and the holes on the side where it could be affixed in a holder. Apart from its size and shape, the weight would be appropriate, too, for a version that is supposed to be able to keep swinging for an extended time.

Many thanks to everyone who contributed their ideas!