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Fine Brass Pocket Sundial And Compass By Michael Butterfield Paris
Status:This item has been sold Sold by:Alexander George Antiques Ltd.
A fine brass Anglo-French octagonal pocket sundial with a compass by Michael Butterfield, circa 1700.
The sundial can be used anywhere between latitudes of 40° and 60° covering Southern Spain and Italy north to Scandinavia. The elaborately engraved base plate has various Roman chapter rings with subdivisions on which the folding hinged gnomon (a triangular flap) casts its shadow. It is signed by the maker in the following manner: Butterfield A Paris. On one side is a glazed recessed compass, with a blued steel hand, to position the instrument in such a way that the time can be read. The triangular gnomon is richly engraved and can be set for a particular latitude by sliding the gnomon up or down, the latitude being indicated by the beak of a figured engraved bird. The folding gnomon and cut corners enable the dial to be carried in the pocket.
The underside shows the latitudes of various European places, including London and Rome.
Its maker Michael Butterfield (b.1635, d.1724) ...was an English instrument maker who based himself in Paris for a time. These types of dials, often replicated by other makers, became known as Butterfield Dials. They were a fashionable and functional traveller’s accessory from the late 17th century onwards.
Interestingly, early watches did not keep time particularly well and a dial such as this were used to regularly set a watch. Anecdotally, sundials may also have been preferred to sounding timepieces whilst on the road – the chimes being thought to attract thieves.
Similar examples can be found in the British Maritime Museum, V&A and the British Museum.
Whether you are a collector or a first-time buyer the choice of pieces will inspire. Each has been carefully selected for its exceptional design and provenance, as well as in many instances its academic significance.
Originality and authenticity are paramount; and using our extensive knowledge and experience in furniture conservation and restoration we can ensure that our clients can buy with absolute confidence.
Antique ID Number (AIDN): SA754339
Dateline of this antique is 1700
Height is 6.5cm (2.6inches)Width is 5.8cm (2.3inches)Depth is 5cm (2.0inches)
Antique SA754339 shown on this page was made in 1700. For historical context, the timeline below highlights the period when it was created:
←1700
ANTIQUE SA754339
CONTACT DETAILS OF SELLER:
Alexander George Antiques Ltd.
Offering carefully selected antique masterpieces from the 17th & 18th centuries
Alexander George Antiques Ltd. is also an antique trade association member of LAPADA
Oxfordshire
United Kingdom
Tel: 07787 536199
STATUS
THIS ITEM HAS BEEN SOLD
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