string-gnomon sundial
Date1910
Inventory Number7958
ClassificationSundial
Subject
Maker
Hayashikisuke?
Cultural Region
Place of Origin
Dimensions2 × 6.7 × 3.3 cm (13/16 × 2 5/8 × 1 5/16 in.)
Material
DescriptionA string gnomon is supported above a magnetic compass using a hinged bracket. The chapter ring is marked VI-XII-I-VI with no subdivisions. The compass is barely visible beneath its glass cover. The four major points of the compass rose are marked with kanji characters with subdivisions.,rectangular
Signed: Signed "" in Kanji, Hayashikisuke?
Signed: Signed "" in Kanji, Hayashikisuke?
Curatorial RemarksThe basis for the translation of kanji characters is unknown.
FunctionTime finding at one latitude after orienting the gnomon to point toward true North.
ProvenanceHarold Clarence Ernst, MD, Boston, c. 1900-1922 (no. 52); Mrs. Ellen L. Ernst (his widow), Jamaica Plain, MA, 1922; on loan to the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, 1923-1938; gift to Harvard College Observatory, 1938; transfer to CHSI, 1964.
Pierre Le Maire II
Date: circa 1745
Accessories: plum bob; case
Object number: 7870
