Lot 121
  • 121

A polychrome engraved ivory diptych dial, probably Thomas Tucher, Nuremberg dated 1620

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Description

  • 10.5 x 7.5 x 1.5cm
unsigned but with a crowned snake mark attributed to the Tucher family

Leaf Ia) wind rose with 32 points, labeled in German and Latin, double-ended pointer (possibly replaced), surrounded by lined frame and foliate scrolls

Leaf Ib) vertical dial labeled in gothic-style numerals VII-XII-V with lines and dots marking half and quarter hours, three unlabelled holes for string gnomon, pin gnomon dial top left for day length and by zodiac symbol, similar pin gnomon dial to the right for Italian hours, lined borders and foliate scrolls

Leaf IIa) compass bowl and horizontal dial labeled 5-12-7, pin gnomon dial for Nuremberg hours, double lined border dated anno 1620, and inscribed EIN CAMPAST KAN NIT REGT WEISSEN NAHE PEI EISSEN (a compass cannot work correctly near iron)

Leaf IIb) German lunar volvelle (brass disc missing), scales numbered 1-12 twice in red and 1-29 in black within Gregorian and Julian epact tables incorrectly labeled, the outer ring with crowned snake marker’s mark surrounding decoration as Ia