3-ring universal ring sundial
Date1689
Inventory Number7167
ClassificationSundial
Subject
Maker
Giovanni Wendelino Hessler
fl. 1675 - 1689
Place of Origin
DimensionsOverall: 0.4 lb., 6.7 x 1 x 6.7 x 9 cm (0.2 kg, 2 5/8 x 3/8 x 2 5/8 x 3 9/16 in.)
Overall - Storage: 1 x 6.7 x 9 cm (3/8 x 2 5/8 x 3 9/16 in.)
Overall - Storage: 1 x 6.7 x 9 cm (3/8 x 2 5/8 x 3 9/16 in.)
Material
DescriptionThe meridian ring (outer ring) is marked for northern latitudes from 0° to 90° in 1° increments. The equinoctial ring (center ring) is marked I-XII-I-XII in 1/4 hour increments. The horary ring (inner ring) includes a rotating peep sight that can be adjusted against a zodiac or date scale (subdivided into 10 day increments.,circular,The meridian ring also has a scale marked in 0°-90° quadrants subdivided into 2° increments. The interior surface of the equinoctial ring is marked 1-24.
SignedSigned "Gioann Wendelino Hessler 2.6.89" and "Roma 42" are engraved on the meridian ring.
Curatorial RemarksThe date may be 1789 or it may not be a date at all.
FunctionThis instrument has three rings: the latitude is set by the position of the suspension index against the degree scale; the pinhole on the far side of the inner ring is rotated for adjustment for the Sun's position north or south of the Equator; the hours are marked on the center ring. To tell the time, the dial and the inner ring are rotated until the pinhole of light falls across the inner ring, which will then indicate the time.
ProvenanceJoseph Drecker, Aachen, Germany, before 1928 (no. 204). David Wheatland acquired in 1959. Donated to CHSI c. 1985.
German
Date: 1700
Accessories: None. A painted metal stand, No. 408 is associated with this dial but has not been located
Object number: 7172
Edmund Culpeper
Date: circa 1730
Accessories: Rectangular black leather covered case with dark blue velvet lining.
Object number: 7464
