Crucifix Dial, 1596
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
1596
This crucifix sundial, inventory number 37133 at the Museum of the History of Science, Oxford, is constructed from gilt brass and measures 90 mm in length. Attributed to the maker Markus Purmann and dated 1596, the device functions as both a devotional object and a polar sundial.
The dial comprises a base plate featuring a glazed magnetic compass and a hinged upper cross-shaped box. The instrument uses the edges of the upper cross section to cast shadows onto hour lines engraved on six rectangular faces. A graduated scale on the base plate allows the user to adjust the angle of the upper section to the appropriate latitude. The exterior features religious imagery including Christ at Calvary and the brazen serpent, alongside decorative engravings.
A ring and shackle at the top indicate the instrument was designed for wear as a pendant.
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
- 1596
- Type
- German crucifix dial
- Maker
- Markus Purmann
- Length
- 90 mm
- Material
- Gilt brass
- Provenance
- Museum of the History of Science, Oxford
- Latitude Scale
- 10 to 85 degrees
- Place recorded
- Germany
- Maker / attribution
- Markus Purmann
Design
- Visible features
- • Glazed magnetic compass on base plate • Latitude adjustment scale marked GRADVS ELEVATIONIS POLI • Engraved Christ figure with INRI inscription • Skull and cross-bones engraving at the base
- Construction and Design
- The object is a crucifix-shaped sundial consisting of two primary components: a flat base plate and a hinged, cross-shaped upper box. The base plate contains a small, integrated, glazed magnetic compass, which serves as a navigational tool to orient the instrument for accurate timekeeping. A raised box section on the base is marked with a latitude scale ranging from 10 to 85 degrees, divided into 5-degree increments up to 60 degrees, and 1-degree increments from 60 to 85. This scale allows the user to incline the upper cross section to the correct angle based on the user's geographic location. The upper section functions as a polar dial. Six rectangular faces of the cross feature hour lines, and the shadows are cast by the edges of the top part of the cross. The hours are engraved in a counter-clockwise sequence around these faces, starting from 1 through 6, 9 through 12, 6 through 9, 3 through 6, 12 through 3, and 6 through 11.
- Iconography and Significance
- The surfaces of the crucifix are decorated with symbolic imagery. The front side displays an engraving of Christ at Calvary, surmounted by the inscription 'INRI', and features a depiction of a skull and cross-bones at the base. The object is considered a polyhedral dial with devotional significance. The presence of the imagery is intended to link the practical use of the dial to theological reflection, suggesting that the user might find spiritual healing through the act of faith, paralleling the medical symbolism associated with the brazen serpent.
- Signatures and Internal Features
- The dial is signed 'M P' with stars, and dated '1596', which are visible on the rectangular faces of the upper section. The instrument includes an attachment point consisting of a ring and shackle at the top, which would have allowed the object to be worn around the neck. The internal construction includes box sections that appear intended for storage. Specifically, one part of the box has been configured into a small internal compartment. It is suggested that this area may have been intended for housing relics, although the cover for this section is no longer present.
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: Purpose of the internal compartment remains speculative
- Research required: Missing cover for the internal compartment