Paul Reinmann Diptych Dial, 1599

Technical characteristics

Date

1599

Type

Nuremberg diptych dial

Maker

Paul Reinmann

Material

Ivory and brass

Dimensions

113 x 65 x 14 mm

Inscription

PAVLUS REINMAN NORIMBERGAE FAC

Place recorded

Germany

Maker / attribution

Paul Reinmann

Place of manufacture

Nuremberg

Design

Visible features

• Maker's crown mark stamped twice on the base • Brass clasps on the outer edges for closure and support • Latitude table listing 40 European locations on the lower leaf outer surface • Red and black color-filled stamped inscriptions

Construction and Design

The diptych dial is a portable instrument formed from two hinged leaves made of ivory and brass. It measures 113 x 65 x 14 mm and features red and black-filled stamped inscriptions throughout its surfaces. Two brass clasps on the side secure the dial in a closed position, with one clasp designed to hold the leaves open when in use. The outer surface of the upper leaf contains a lunar volvelle with an integrated wind rose, while the lower leaf's outer surface is dedicated to a latitude list of 40 European cities. The interior surfaces accommodate several horological systems. The upper leaf includes a pin gnomon dial for unequal hours featuring zodiacal signs and a string gnomon dial. An equatorial pin gnomon dial sits centrally on a gilt brass disc. The lower leaf contains a horizontal string gnomon dial surrounding a central compass, along with a secondary pin gnomon dial displaying Italian and Babylonian hours. Decoration includes geometrical patterns, stars, and blowing faces in the corners.

Signatures and Provenance

The instrument is signed by Paul Reinmann, a known Nuremberg maker. His name and title, 'PAVLUS REINMAN NORIMBERGAE FAC', are found inscribed on the inner surface of the upper leaf. The maker’s mark, representing a crown, is stamped twice on the base of the object. Several inscriptions, including mottos such as 'SOLI DEO GLORIA', are present on the ivory surfaces. The dial was purchased in 1862 and is currently held by the British Museum under the inventory number MLA 1862,8-9.4. It is documented in the publication A Catalogue of European Scientific Instruments in the Department of Medieval and Later Antiquities of the British Museum by F. A. B. Ward, which provides further context for its identification and historical placement.

Astronomical and Timekeeping Functions

The object functions as a multi-purpose scientific instrument, capable of calculating lunar and solar time. The lunar volvelle, composed of a movable brass disc with a sun effigy, allows for the conversion of lunar into solar time. It features a 24-hour scale, moon phase aperture, and lunar age indicator. The accompanying wind rose displays 32 directions in abbreviated German. Further time measurement is provided by multiple pin and string gnomon dials. The pin gnomon dials display Italian, Babylonian, and unequal hours, with specific scales inscribed on the internal ivory faces. The horizontal string gnomon dial on the lower leaf is marked in 1/2 and 1/4 hour divisions. Epact tables for both the Julian and Gregorian calendars are present on the outer edge, enabling the user to adjust the instrument for calendar variations.

Identification

Inventory number

MLA 1862,8-9.4

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.