Astronomical compendium by Christopher Schissler
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
1557
This astronomical compendium, created in 1557 by the German maker Christopher Schissler, is an instrument constructed from engraved, gilt copper. It consists of three rectangular leaves hinged together.
The device serves multiple temporal and astronomical functions, featuring a sundial designed for four different latitudes, a nocturnal dial equipped with chronometric tables, a compass, and various reference tables for converting solar into lunar time and determining moon phases. The instrument also includes a table of latitudes covering cities such as London, Amsterdam, Oxford, and Paris. The decorative scheme includes engraved strapwork and floral ornamentation within the spandrels of the dials.
The compendium was originally housed in a dark brown leather case with a brass hinge and clasp, though components of the compass mechanism are currently absent. The signature and date are engraved on the edges of the instrument.
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
- 1557
- Type
- Astronomical compendium
- Maker
- Christopher Schissler
- Materials
- Copper, gilt and engraved
- Object type
- Astronomical compendium
- Inscriptions
- CRISTOPHORUS SCHISSLER ME FECIT AVGVSTE VINDELICORVM ANNO DOMINI 1557
- Place recorded
- Germany
- Maker / attribution
- Christopher Schissler
- Place of manufacture
- Augsburg, Germany
Design
- Visible features
- • Hinged three-leaf construction • Engraved strapwork and floral ornament in spandrels • Latitude table including cities such as London and Paris • Brass folding gnomon present
- Astronomical Functions
- The instrument contains a series of mathematical and astronomical aids. Included are tables for calculating the conversion of solar time to lunar time, alongside a reference providing phases of the moon according to its age. A further table of latitudes lists various geographical locations, including cities across England, Scotland, and the continent, such as London, Amsterdam, Oxford, and Paris. The nocturnal dial includes its own set of chronometric tables. Additionally, the compendium features a table designed for the conversion of equal hours into planetary hours. These diverse functions suggest the instrument was intended for varied astronomical calculations beyond simple timekeeping.
- Signatures and History
- The instrument is signed by Christopher Schissler on its edges, identifying him as the maker and specifying the location of production in Augsburg, Germany. The inscription is dated 1557. Schissler operated a workshop that gained recognition for the production of specialized scientific instruments, including sundials and compendia. Historical records link the workshop to the manufacture of instruments for Tycho Brahe, the astronomer. The compendium was later integrated into the museum's collection, registered under the accession number M.167-1938.
- Construction and Design
- The astronomical compendium is fabricated from sheet copper, which has been gilded and decorated with engraved patterns. The instrument is composed of three rectangular leaves connected by hinges, allowing the unit to be opened or folded for storage. The surfaces are densely engraved, with strapwork and floral ornamentation filling the spaces not occupied by scales or inscriptions. The device incorporates several integrated components for timekeeping and celestial tracking. The layout includes a sundial configured for four latitudes, a nocturnal dial, and a sighting compass. The edges of the leaves provide mounting points for the internal mechanisms, and the frame is secured by a brass hinge and clasp system.
Identification
- Accession number
- M.167-1938
- 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: Missing compass needles and glass
- Research required: Condition of the original leather case is not detailed beyond its physical description