Johann Georg Vogler Equatorial Sundial
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
around 1720 - 1765
This silver equatorial sundial attributed to Johann Georg Vogler features an octagonal base framing an integral circular compass. The instrument is fitted with a folding chapter ring displaying Roman numerals, a graduated folding latitude arc, and an ornamental support, mounted over foliate scrollwork engraving.
The central glazed compass contains an engraved compass rose with directional indications. The auction house reports that the underside is monogrammed 'I.G.V.' and engraved with pole lengths and names for twenty European cities, while noting the glazing is replaced and the pole hand is lost.
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
- Equatorial sundial
- Maker
- Johann Georg Vogler
- Materials
- Silver, blued steel hand, glazing
- Base Shape
- Octagonal base with round compass case
- Dimensions
- L 6.9, W 6.6 cm
- Place recorded
- Germany
- Underside Markings
- Pole lengths, names of 20 European cities, monogrammed I.G.V.
- Maker / attribution
- Johann Georg Vogler
- Directional Markings
- SERIEN, ORIEN, MERIDI and OCCIDE
Design
- Visible features
- • Octagonal silver plate engraved with scrolling acanthus patterns around the central compass aperture. • Folding chapter ring engraved with Roman numerals from III to XII and I to IX. • Graduated folding latitude arc marked from 10 to 80 degrees. • Glazed central compass bowl containing an engraved multi-point compass rose and directional markings including ORIEN and OCC[IDE]. • Blued steel magnetic needle pivoted at the centre of the compass.
- Physical Configuration
- The instrument consists of an octagonal silver base containing a circular compass case. The four cardinal directions are engraved on the plate as "SERIEN," "ORIEN," "MERIDI," and "OCCIDE." The sundial includes a folding chapter ring, a folding frame, and a graduated latitude arc.
- Condition and Attribution
- The source identifies the object as having replaced glazing and a lost pole hand. The instrument is attributed to Johann Georg Vogler of Augsburg (active circa 1720–1765), based on the monogram found on the underside.
- Compass and Underside Markings
- The instrument utilizes a blued steel hand within the compass. The underside of the base is engraved with the names of twenty European cities along with their corresponding pole lengths. The monogram "I.G.V." is engraved on the underside of the instrument.
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: Source notes the glazing has been replaced and the pole hand is lost.
- Research required: Maker attribution to Johann Georg Vogler relies on source documentation and monogram, not verified on the visible face.