Description

Lemaire (Pierre I), Horizontal rectangular sundial with bracket, circa 1750

Brass, steel, and glass; 10.9 x 7.2 cm and approximately 12 cm high.

Brass sundial signed “Pre le maire à Paris,” ie Pierre I Lemaire, son of Nicolas Lemaire. Lemaire developed this rectangular sundial design, made and sell examples in two different sizes. This is the larger version.

The large rectangular plate is engraved with three hour scales for latitudes of 43, 46, and 52 degrees. In the center, a rectangular opening reveals the large, elongated compass, the base of which is engraved with the four cardinal points, with north represented by a fleur-de-lis. It is divided into two sections, 0-30 degrees.

The gnomon with its wire axis is adjustable in height on its large bracket from 40 to 55 degrees. The thread remains taut thanks to a lead weight, which also serves to perfectly level the dial using four leveling screws that support the base plate.

On the back, a screw set around the edge of the compass allows adjustment of the length of the thread-axis forming the gnomon. The names and latitudes of 14 French and European cities are also engraved. The spring of the compass arm is beautifully engraved.

The dial is kept in its original case covered in fish skin and lined with red velvet. In excellent original condition.