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Diptych Compass/Sundial

Description

Diptych compass/sundial found in attic. No history known.

Carved from fruitwood. Fully functional and in excellent condition. On the upper left interior, is a list of cities and numbers. In the upper right interior, there is a 'metal' ball attached to a string. The ball rests in a circular pivot also covered with metal when closed. (this may be a barometer of some sort?)

The lower interior displays a sundial with an ornate sun pictured in the center surrounded by decorative laurels. The compass is set directly below the sundial.  

I am wondering if there is any way to date this item. I would like to know what the function of the "ball and string" might be. Also, what if any market value it may have.

Category Maps, Charts, and Nautical
Medium Wood
Condition Excellent
Size and dimensions of this item 4in x 2in x 1in
Date Period 18th-19th
Weight 9oz
History Found in old attic during move. Have no knowledge of previous history
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Collector Discussion

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L
Lovejoy 🎯 Collector 14 years ago

It looks like a reproduction to me, the ball acts like a plumb bob to level the box, if the ball hangs straight the sundial is level, otherwise the time the sundial shows would be off.

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