Description

A very rare model of a cross-shaped or cruciform sundial, unsigned but German, dating back to the early 19th century.

Cruciform models have existed since at least the first half of the 16th century. They were used for ecclesiastical purposes, as highlighted here by the moto taken from Psalm 150 and inscribed below the cross: “Ominis spiritus Laudet dominum” [Everything that breathes praises the Lord].

The instrument consists of two dials:

– A horizontal dial on the brass plate incorporating a compass and inscribed with two hour scales for latitudes 40 and 50 degrees north, divided into 4-12 and 1-8. The axis-wire is adjusted using the latitude scale inscribed on the cross.

– A crucifix or cruciform dial whose setting is achieved by tilting the cross along the quadrant mounted on the plate and divided into 0 to 90 degrees. The hour scales are engraved on the arms and along the cross, which also serve as a gnomon.

A very rare model of sundial that combines religious practice and time measurement.

While watches and clocks were already widely available at the dawn of the 19th century, the construction of such a cruciform dial necessarily carried a strong symbolic meaning, recalling the Christian motif of the Memento Mori, “Remember that you will die.”

The plate measures 10 x 7.5 cm and the dial is approximately 10.3 cm high.

Aside from its rarity, this dial has a particularly interesting provenance, as it was exhibited in 1984 at the famous Brussels exhibition “La mesure du temps” (see the photos of the catalog, page 101, issue 112).