Horizontal Dial in a Powder Flask
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
circa 1560
This horizontal dial, attributed to the maker Christoph Schissler, dates to approximately 1560 and originated in Augsburg. Constructed from brass, the device measures 71 x 35 x 90 mm and is fashioned in the form of a three-dimensional heart, simultaneously functioning as a powder flask.
The exterior surfaces are adorned with intricate strapwork engraving. When opened, the interior of the box reveals a central compass featuring magnetic deviation markings. A series of concentric hearts serves as the backdrop for the dial's hour lines, which indicate common hours from VI to XII to VI. A string gnomon, mounted on a folding support, facilitates timekeeping. The device includes two suspension rings, one of which is damaged.
The hollow interior space beneath the dial-plate serves as a container for gunpowder, representing a dual-purpose tool combining horological function with military or hunting equipment utility.
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
- circa 1560
- Type
- Augsburg horizontal dial
- Maker
- Christoph Schissler
- Function
- Horizontal dial and powder flask
- Collection
- Bernal Collection
- Dimensions
- 71 x 35 x 90 mm
- Place recorded
- Germany
- Maker / attribution
- Christoph Schissler
Design
- Visible features
- • Heart-shaped brass housing with strapwork decoration • Folding string gnomon assembly with hinged support • Central inset compass with visible needle • Two suspension rings attached to the exterior
- Construction and Design
- The object is crafted from brass and takes the form of a three-dimensional heart, measuring 71 by 35 by 90 millimetres. The exterior surfaces of this heart-shaped casing are decorated with fine strapwork engraving. The construction serves a dual purpose, acting as a horizontal sun dial while the hollow interior cavity provides a functional powder flask. The dial layout is located on the interior of the main box. It features concentric heart-shaped lines and strapwork motifs surrounding a central compass. The hour lines, intended for a string gnomon, are engraved for common hours ranging from VI to XII and back to VI.
- Instrumentation and Components
- The timekeeping mechanism relies on a string gnomon held by a hinged folding support, which allows the instrument to be collapsed when not in use. A compass is inset at the centre of the dial plate, which includes markings for magnetic deviation to aid in the correct orientation of the instrument. Two small rings are provided for suspension, though the condition of the object includes a break in one of these elements. The internal face of the lid is plain and lacks any decoration or engraving.
- Provenance and Historical Context
- The instrument was previously part of the Bernal Collection before entering the holdings of the British Museum. It is formally referenced in F. A. B. Ward’s catalogue of European scientific instruments held by the museum, where it is listed as item number 11. Historical comparisons have been drawn to similar examples in scholarly literature, specifically referencing work by A. Rohde. It is noted that while such combination tools were not common, other instances of time-telling devices being integrated into tobacco and powder cases are recorded.
Identification
- Inventory Number
- MLA 1855, 12-1.219
- 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: Possible later restoration of the compass assembly
- Research required: Potential later replacement of the string gnomon support