Mariner's Compass
Date1600-1699
Period17th century
Classification(s)
Object TypeMariner's Compass; Magnetic Compass
Registration NumberMMM 000065.2
DescriptionMariner's compass composed of two parts - the compass itself inside the boxwood case and the lid. It may be a Portuguese invention but requires further research. This small compass is mounted in a turned wooden box. The card is probably hand-painted and is marked with the 32 points. The north point is decorated and the east point with a cross indicating Jerusalem. The other cardinal and semi-cardinal points are marked G, L, S, O, P and M.MaterialWood, card, glass, wax
DimensionsCompass: 75mm x 35mm x 46mm (overall height)
Lid: 77mm x 11mmExhibition HistoryExhibited in Malta. Land of Sea, BOZAR, Centre of Fine Arts, Brussels; 17 February - 28 May 2017.BibliographyRoyal Museums Greenwich. (2021). "Mariner's Compass", [online], https://www.rmg.co.uk/collections/objects/rmgc-object-42675, accessed last on 13/10/2021
Alternate ID Numbers
- Register Book Number 34
- Inventory Card 6729-30
- HM Object Number 50748
Public Access
Not on viewMuseumMalta Maritime Museum
Location
- Malta Maritime Museum, Reserve Collection
