David Beringer single-latitude sundial, circa 1780
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
circa 1780
The source reports that this engraved brass single-latitude sundial dates to circa 1780 and is attributed to David Beringer based on an engraved 'B' mark. The dial is mounted onto an ebony base and features an engraved circular scale divided into hour intervals from 4 to 12 and 1 to 8.
A folding brass gnomon is set for a latitude of 49 or 50 degrees, matching geographic regions including southern Germany, Bavaria, the Rhineland, parts of Belgium, and northern France. The brass plate is fixed by corner screws over an inset compass well, measuring 5.9 by 5.9 by 4 cm.
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
- Type
- Scientific instrument
- Marking
- Letter 'B' mark
- Dimensions
- 5.9 x 5.9 x 4 cm
- Base Material
- Ebony
- Hour Divisions
- 4-12 and 1-8
- Attributed Maker
- David Beringer
- Intended Latitude
- 49 or 50 degrees
- Maker / attribution
- David Beringer
Design
- Visible features
- • Square brass plate secured to a stepped dark wooden base with four slotted screws. • Central circular cutout revealing an inset compass well beneath a brass bridge and folding gnomon. • Engraved Roman and Arabic numerals indicating the hour track on the brass top plate.
- Construction and Condition
- The brass plate is attached to the stepped wooden base using four slotted screws. The instrument is reported to be in good working order. The source does not provide information regarding the condition or markings on the underside of the base.
- Dial and Gnomon Configuration
- The brass dial plate is engraved with hour intervals labeled 4-12 and 1-8. It features a central circular cutout containing an inset compass well, situated beneath a brass bridge and the gnomon. The folding gnomon is designed for a latitude of 49 or 50 degrees, which the source associates with regions including southern Germany, the Rhineland, Bavaria, Belgium, and northern France.
- Object Description and Attribution
- This instrument is a single-latitude sundial constructed from engraved brass and mounted on an ebony base. The attribution to David Beringer is based on the presence of a 'B' mark. The object measures 5.9 by 5.9 by 4 cm. The source lists its period as the 18th century, specifically circa 1780.
Identification
- Reference
- 1803793
- 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: Attribution to David Beringer is based solely on a single stamped or engraved 'B' mark.
- Research required: Country of origin is not explicitly stated in the source listing.
- Research required: The underside of the base is not depicted.