Compass with Sundial

Date1785-1790

Classification(s)

Navigation and Timekeeping / Magnetic and Astronomical

Object TypeMariner's Compass; Magnetic Compass; Sundial

Registration NumberMMM 001187

DescriptionA finely decorated 18th century Diptych Sundial and Compass in a portable wooden boxwood, with string gnomon, possibly of German origin. Similar compasses were attributed to Johann Georg Kleininger of Nuremberg, dating back to circa 1785- 1790. This miniature diptych dial consists of two leaves that fold flat when not in use. Leaf 1 exterior contains a deteriorated inscription which unfortunately is not legible. Leaf 1 interior contains the vertical dial with hour lines radiating from a central decorative motif. This leaf is decorated with borders and hand-painted grapes. Leaf 2 interior has the dial, where the cardinal points are possibly marked in German. The dial is surrounded by hour references. Both clock and leaf are surrounded by a decorative border, with hand-painted floral and vegetal motifs, namely two sunflowers. Leaf 2 exterior is blank. The leaves have a brass hook fastner.
InscriptionsInside compass "Nord", "Sud", "West", "Ost". Numerical inscriptions related to its function as a sundial both interior and exterior.Technique

Hand coloured on paper with string gnomon. Paper on exterior case.

Dimensions7cm x 6.4cm x 4.8cmPublished ReferencesLot-Art | Diptych sundial, Johann Georg Kleininger, Nuremberg - Wood, paper - circa 1800

Alternate ID Numbers