Exchequer Standard bushel measure

A cast bronze Exchequer Standard bushel measure with opposing lug handles and tripod feet. The vessel is dated 1674 and bears the arms of the City of London. With a volumetric measure of approximately 2256 cubic inches, the measure holds a unit bushel (eight ale gallons or four pecks). This was probably one of a set of standard weights and measures held by the Corporation of London against which those in commercial use could be checked. The Winchester standard was used from the late 15th century until it was superseded by the Imperial Measure in 1826. Massive quantities of grain were needed to feed Londoners so the City authorities tried to control supplies and stockpiles were kept for times of famine, plague and war. The grain was weighed in bushel measures like this one.