18th Century German Diptych Portable Sundial and Compass
Here is a fascinating 18th Century German Diptych Portable Sundial and Compass. This piece is in working order and is in overall good condition for its age with some wear consistent with age and use as seen in the pictures.
Boxwood. Germany. Late 18th Century.
These devices were compact and designed for portability, often used by travelers, explorers, or anyone needing to determine the time and cardinal directions on the go.
Measures approx. 2.25”W x 3.25”L
Key Features:
Diptych Design:
The term "diptych" refers to a two-panel design, typically hinged together like a small book. When opened, the two panels lie flat, forming a 90-degree angle.
The top panel typically had a string gnomon (a piece of thread) that casts a shadow on the bottom panel. The gnomon is adjustable to match the latitude of the user, making the sundial more accurate in different locations.
Sundial:
The lower panel features a horizontal sundial, with hour lines marked to show the time based on the shadow cast by the gnomon.
The sundial can be calibrated for specific latitudes, often indicated on the instrument. This was important because the angle of the sun varies with latitude.
Compass:
A small magnetic compass is embedded in the lower panel. The compass was essential for orienting the sundial to true north, ensuring accurate time-telling.
The compass is surrounded by cardinal directions and sometimes decorated with engravings or designs typical of the period.
Materials and Craftsmanship:
These instruments were often made of ivory, wood, or metal, sometimes with inlaid brass or silver for the hour lines and other markings.
The craftsmanship was typically very detailed, with intricate engravings or decorative elements that reflected the artistry and precision of the makers.
Functionality:
In addition to telling time, these sundials often included additional scales or markings, such as a calendar, lunar phases, or conversion charts for different time systems.
They were both practical tools and objects of art, reflecting the scientific knowledge and aesthetic values of the 18th century.
Historical Context:
During the 18th century, scientific exploration and the study of astronomy were burgeoning fields. Instruments like these were essential for navigation, exploration, and scientific research.
Germany was a significant center for scientific instrument-making during this period, and German artisans were renowned for their precision and quality.
These portable sundials and compasses are now highly valued by collectors and museums as symbols of the blend of science, art, and exploration that characterized the 18th century.
Here is a fascinating 18th Century German Diptych Portable Sundial and Compass. This piece is in working order and is in overall good condition for its age with some wear consistent with age and use as seen in the pictures.
Boxwood. Germany. Late 18th Century.
These devices were compact and designed for portability, often used by travelers, explorers, or anyone needing to determine the time and cardinal directions on the go.
Measures approx. 2.25”W x 3.25”L
Key Features:
Diptych Design:
The term "diptych" refers to a two-panel design, typically hinged together like a small book. When opened, the two panels lie flat, forming a 90-degree angle.
The top panel typically had a string gnomon (a piece of thread) that casts a shadow on the bottom panel. The gnomon is adjustable to match the latitude of the user, making the sundial more accurate in different locations.
Sundial:
The lower panel features a horizontal sundial, with hour lines marked to show the time based on the shadow cast by the gnomon.
The sundial can be calibrated for specific latitudes, often indicated on the instrument. This was important because the angle of the sun varies with latitude.
Compass:
A small magnetic compass is embedded in the lower panel. The compass was essential for orienting the sundial to true north, ensuring accurate time-telling.
The compass is surrounded by cardinal directions and sometimes decorated with engravings or designs typical of the period.
Materials and Craftsmanship:
These instruments were often made of ivory, wood, or metal, sometimes with inlaid brass or silver for the hour lines and other markings.
The craftsmanship was typically very detailed, with intricate engravings or decorative elements that reflected the artistry and precision of the makers.
Functionality:
In addition to telling time, these sundials often included additional scales or markings, such as a calendar, lunar phases, or conversion charts for different time systems.
They were both practical tools and objects of art, reflecting the scientific knowledge and aesthetic values of the 18th century.
Historical Context:
During the 18th century, scientific exploration and the study of astronomy were burgeoning fields. Instruments like these were essential for navigation, exploration, and scientific research.
Germany was a significant center for scientific instrument-making during this period, and German artisans were renowned for their precision and quality.
These portable sundials and compasses are now highly valued by collectors and museums as symbols of the blend of science, art, and exploration that characterized the 18th century.
Here is a fascinating 18th Century German Diptych Portable Sundial and Compass. This piece is in working order and is in overall good condition for its age with some wear consistent with age and use as seen in the pictures.
Boxwood. Germany. Late 18th Century.
These devices were compact and designed for portability, often used by travelers, explorers, or anyone needing to determine the time and cardinal directions on the go.
Measures approx. 2.25”W x 3.25”L
Key Features:
Diptych Design:
The term "diptych" refers to a two-panel design, typically hinged together like a small book. When opened, the two panels lie flat, forming a 90-degree angle.
The top panel typically had a string gnomon (a piece of thread) that casts a shadow on the bottom panel. The gnomon is adjustable to match the latitude of the user, making the sundial more accurate in different locations.
Sundial:
The lower panel features a horizontal sundial, with hour lines marked to show the time based on the shadow cast by the gnomon.
The sundial can be calibrated for specific latitudes, often indicated on the instrument. This was important because the angle of the sun varies with latitude.
Compass:
A small magnetic compass is embedded in the lower panel. The compass was essential for orienting the sundial to true north, ensuring accurate time-telling.
The compass is surrounded by cardinal directions and sometimes decorated with engravings or designs typical of the period.
Materials and Craftsmanship:
These instruments were often made of ivory, wood, or metal, sometimes with inlaid brass or silver for the hour lines and other markings.
The craftsmanship was typically very detailed, with intricate engravings or decorative elements that reflected the artistry and precision of the makers.
Functionality:
In addition to telling time, these sundials often included additional scales or markings, such as a calendar, lunar phases, or conversion charts for different time systems.
They were both practical tools and objects of art, reflecting the scientific knowledge and aesthetic values of the 18th century.
Historical Context:
During the 18th century, scientific exploration and the study of astronomy were burgeoning fields. Instruments like these were essential for navigation, exploration, and scientific research.
Germany was a significant center for scientific instrument-making during this period, and German artisans were renowned for their precision and quality.
These portable sundials and compasses are now highly valued by collectors and museums as symbols of the blend of science, art, and exploration that characterized the 18th century.