Chalice Dial by Markus Purmann
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
1599
This chalice dial, created in Munich in 1599 by maker Markus Purmann, is constructed of gilt brass and measures 134 mm in height. The instrument functions as a sundial, with a central gnomon positioned within the cup.
The external surface is engraved with floral motifs enclosed in cartouches and foliage. The base features three raised bosses, one of which contains a compass compartment. The internal portion of the chalice is engraved with hour lines for both Italian and common hours. The Italian hours, numbered 9 to 24, are designed for use with an empty cup, while the common hours, numbered 4 to 12 and VI to XII, account for the refraction of light when the cup is filled with water.
A scale of latitudes is present on the folded brass plate, and zodiacal symbols indicate the solar declination.
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
- 1599
- Type
- German chalice dial
- Maker
- Markus Purmann
- Height
- 134 mm
- Material
- Gilt brass
- Latitude scale
- Unequal scale 0 to 66 degrees
- Place recorded
- Munich
- Italian hour scale
- Numbered 9 to 24
- Maker / attribution
- Markus Purmann
- Location of manufacture
- Munich
Design
- Visible features
- • Floral engraving on the exterior surface • Raised bosses located on the base • Central gnomon visible inside the cup • Signature text engraved around the interior rim
- Physical Design and Decoration
- The instrument is a chalice-shaped sundial standing 134 mm high, fashioned from gilt brass. The exterior cup surface is finished with finely engraved floral patterns contained within cartouches, alongside foliage designs. The rim features further decorative engraving. The base of the object is supported by three raised circular bosses. One of these serves as a cover for a small compass, though this component is presently incomplete.
- Signatures and Scientific Markings
- The object bears a detailed signature and technical information inscribed by the maker. The text reads 'MARCVS PVRMAN MONACHI FACIEBAT' alongside the specific latitude 'ELEVATIO POLI 48 GRAD' and the year 'ANNO 15 99'. Additional scientific markings include zodiacal symbols for solar declination and an unequal scale of latitudes ranging from 0 to 66 degrees, identified by the label 'SCALA ALTITVDINIS SOLIS'.
- Timekeeping and Technical Function
- The chalice dial utilizes a central gnomon to cast shadows onto lines engraved within the cup. The dial displays two distinct systems of time. The Italian hours, marked 9 to 24, are intended for use while the vessel is empty, denoted by the inscription 'Horarium sine aqua'. Common hours are also provided, calculated to account for the refractive index of water when the cup is filled. These are labeled with the inscription 'Horarium ex perspectiua radiorum refractorum aquae' and are numbered 4 to 12 to 8 and VI to XII to VI.
Identification
- 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: Compass needle is missing
- Research required: Compass plate is identified as a 19th-century replacement