Pocket sundial with compass

Reproduction of a 16th century astronomical instrument (now kept in museums & special collections)

Quadrants with a compass, introduced in the 15th century, were the first portable sundials. The compass served to face the quadrant toward the north and the gnomon (a bit of cord or a flexible triangle) could be raised or lowered to accommodate the latitude where the compass is used.

Their diversity of shapes, materials (often made with ivory) and decorations was vast and these are only some examples.

The golden age of sundials lasted from the 15th century to the end of the 18th.

Measurements: 8.5cm x 5.5cm 

Two separate models are pictured, open and closed.