Qajar Engraved Brass Compass-Sundial Instrument
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
19th century
Described as a nineteenth-century Qajar engraved brass compass-sundial instrument (muwaqqit) from Iran, this circular piece measures 14 cm in diameter. The brass disc is fitted with an upper ring-shaped bail for suspension and features a scalloped or fluted outer rim.
The front surface is decorated with concentric engraved bands featuring figurative and calligraphic motifs, a central movable alidade sighting arm, and an inset lower compass with pierced tracery. The catalogue records that the repoussé reverse displays a central radiating rosette surrounded by a scaled rim.
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
- Other sundial
- Diameter
- 14 cm
- Condition
- Oxidation, chips in gilding, missing central front element
- Front Features
- Movable alidade and compass with magnetic needle
- Place recorded
- Iran
- Instrument Type
- Compass-sundial instrument (muwaqqit)
- Construction and Bail
- Circular engraved brass body suspended by a ring-shaped bail
Design
- Visible features
- • Circular brass plate with a raised, serrated or fluted outer rim. • Bail suspension ring mounted at the top edge. • Surface engraved with concentric bands displaying figurative scenes, animals, and calligraphic inscriptions. • Centrally mounted pivoting sighting arm (alidade). • Circular compass aperture located near the lower rim with openwork pierced tracery.
- Physical Description
- The instrument is composed of a circular brass body measuring 14 cm in diameter. It is designed for suspension, featuring a ring-shaped bail attached to the upper edge of the circular plate. The front surface is equipped with a movable alidade and a compass housing located near the lower rim. The catalogue notes that a central element on the front face is currently missing.
- Condition and Attribution
- The object is attributed to the 19th-century Qajar period in Iran. The auction records characterize the instrument as a 'muwaqqit' (compass-sundial instrument). Documented condition issues include surface oxidation and chips in the gilding.
- Reverse and Decorative Features
- The reverse of the brass plate is finished with repoussé engraving. This side features a central radiating rosette motif, which is enclosed by a scaled rim. Specific decorative details on the front, such as figurative or calligraphic motifs, are mentioned in the broader attribution but are not explicitly described in the provided source text beyond the mention of the brass being engraved.
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: The auction house notes oxidation, losses/chips to gilding, and a missing central element on the front.
- Research required: Reverse repoussé work and compass needle mentioned in the source description are not visible in the provided primary view.