Sold: Polyhedral Sundial

Polyhedral sundial / painted wood, wrought iron / c. 1750s

Antique polyhedral sundial, likely made in Germany, c. early to mid-eighteenth century. This rare timekeeper functions like a typical sundial, although instead of one dial telling the hour of the day, it has six dials, affording the instrument greater accuracy and as a status symbol, indicating its original owner was a man of science. Each of its gnomons (the raised points designed to cast shadows on the dials) is a hand-forged spike of varying size. The dials are hand-painted in red and cream, with the measurements handwritten in ink. The cube is beautifully aged and darkened over time. The piece is both a rare example of an early and esoteric scientific curiosity, but also a work of sculpture.

Good antique condition for its age and delicate design, with some paint loss to the cube and old woodworm damage to the base, which remains stable. The cube is removable from the base by lifting up.

Measurements

Approximately 12 inches tall

Shipping

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