Astronomical Compendium by Christoph Schissler, 1563
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
1563
This gilt brass astronomical compendium, measuring 60 x 66 x 14 mm, was produced in 1563 by the instrument maker Christoph Schissler in Augsburg. The object is a multi-functional timekeeping and navigational instrument featuring a folding construction.
It incorporates a nocturnal, a perpetual calendar, solar and lunar hour dials, and a polar gnomon horizontal dial capable of adjustment for latitudes 45, 48, 51, and 54 degrees. The interior contains a compass and a rotating degree-scaled arm, while other surfaces are engraved with a list of 32 European cities and their respective latitudes, zodiac signs, and conversion tables for unequal and common hours. The instrument is densely decorated with engraved strapwork and foliage in the spandrel areas.
The signature of the maker is prominently inscribed on the exterior edge of the box. The item is part of the collection held at the British Museum.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Technical characteristics
- Date
- 1563
- Type
- Augsburg astronomical compendium
- Maker
- Christoph Schissler
- Location
- Augsburg
- Material
- Gilt brass
- Signature
- CHRISTOPHORVS SCHISSLER FACIEBAT AVGVSTE VINDELICORVM ANNO DOMINI 1563
- Dimensions
- 60 x 66 x 14 mm
- Place recorded
- Germany
- Maker / attribution
- Christoph Schissler
- Registration Number
- MLA 1867, 7-5.23
Design
- Visible features
- • Engraved strapwork and foliage motifs in spandrels • Folding polar gnomon with adjustable style • Signature and date inscribed on the box side • Compass set into the base plate
- Case and External Features
- The compendium is constructed from gilt brass, with dimensions of 60 x 66 x 14 mm. The exterior of the upper leaf features a nocturnal and a perpetual calendar surrounding a rotating volvelle, with month names inscribed in Latin. The edges of the box carry the signature and date of the maker, Christoph Schissler, identifying the place of manufacture as Augsburg. The instrument includes complex engravings of strapwork and foliage that fill the spandrel spaces. Certain elements, such as the arm for the nocturnal and a central vane, are noted as missing from the object in its current state.
- Provenance and Documentation
- The object is part of the collection of the British Museum, London, assigned registration number MLA 1867, 7-5.23. The instrument was presented to the museum by A.W. Franks in 1867. It is documented in academic literature regarding European scientific instruments, specifically appearing in the catalogue compiled by F. A. B. Ward.
- Dials and Astronomical Functions
- The interior of the main box houses a horizontal dial with a polar gnomon, featuring a sliding edge that permits adjustment for four distinct latitudes: 45, 48, 51, and 54 degrees. The dial includes standard hour markings alongside additional lines for specific latitude-based timekeeping. The inside of the upper leaf contains a pierced volvelle with an aspectarium, engraved with lunar and solar hours. A list of 32 cities, including locations such as Amsterdam, Antwerp, and Vienna, is engraved with corresponding latitudes on the base plate. A compass is integrated into the second leaf, surrounded by a rotating arm on a degree scale.
Identification
- Reference
- MLA 1867, 7-5.23
- Source note
- Facts transcribed from the linked source listing or collection record. Attribution and specifications are source-reported and have not been independently authenticated.
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.
Research required
- Research required: Nocturnal arm is missing
- Research required: Vane for the central hole is missing
- Research required: Volvelle and arm on the leaf underside are missing