Polyhedral Sundial, 1596

Technical characteristics

Date

1596

Type

Nuremberg polyhedral dial

Maker

Hans Tucher

Materials

Ivory and gilt brass

Maker's Mark

Serpent mark

Place recorded

Nuremberg

Horizontal Dial

Numbered 4 to 12 to 8 for latitudes 42, 48, and 54 degrees

Inscribed Warning

Latin advice on compass use near iron

Maker / attribution

Hans Tucher

Design

Visible features

• Rectangular parallelepiped form featuring inset ivory panels with dark engraved markings • Gilt brass framework reinforcing the edges of the ivory blocks • Engraved inscriptions include Latin warnings regarding magnetic interference and functional directions • Central circular recess on one face previously housed a magnetic compass

Horological Features

The functionality of the dial is multifaceted, incorporating specialized markings for latitude and solar-lunar tracking. One face features a horizontal dial with specific hour lines calibrated for latitudes 42, 48, and 54 degrees, which indicates the instrument was intended for varied geographical application. Additionally, a specific face is dedicated to the length of the day and the sun's position within the zodiac, supported by a detailed Latin inscription detailing the sun's seasonal path. A lunar volvelle is integrated into the design, allowing the user to find solar time through lunar shadows. Despite the absence of the rotating plate, the base remains marked with concentric scales for the age of the moon (1 to 29) and the hours (1 to 12).

Construction and Design

The sundial is designed as a rectangular parallelepiped, utilizing ivory as the primary material for its panels, which are framed by gilt brass edging. The compact dimensions of 82 x 58 x 54 mm reflect the portability required for such scientific instruments during the late 16th century. The maker, Hans Tucher of Nuremberg, applied precise engraving to all six faces to maximize the instrument's utility across different light conditions and timekeeping standards. The faces contain integrated sundials and a lunar volvelle, demonstrating a multifunctional approach to horology. Each face is stamped with identifying labels or instructions, such as 'OCCIDENS' for the west-facing dial and 'ORIENS' for the east-facing dial. The design incorporates both standard and Italian hour systems, providing versatility for the user. Although the object remains in a structurally recognizable state, evidence of its historical usage and the passage of time is present in the missing components, specifically the compass assembly and the lunar volvelle plate.

Signatures and Inscriptions

The object is clearly attributed to Hans Tucher, a known maker of ivory dials in Nuremberg, through both a signature and a specific maker's mark. The signature 'H D 1596' is accompanied by a serpent, the personal mark associated with Tucher's workshop. Beyond the maker's signature, the dial includes essential functional advice engraved directly into the ivory. This inscription is positioned alongside the other technical markings, ensuring the operator could access crucial navigational and operational safety information during active use of the instrument.

Identification

Inventory Number

55574

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.