Early 18th Century Horizontal "Butterfield Sundial"

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Posted by Otto Veglio
16 years ago
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Description It's an late 17th century, early 18 century silver horizontal "Butterfield Sundial" Its a solid silver pocket sundial that was made in France by Michael Butterfield (1635-1724) & signed "Butterfield A Paris", with the "Fleur-de-Lis" hallmarks on both sides. This is a sophisticated sundial instrument consisting of an octagonal plate (measures 5.4cm, 2 1/8 inches) on which the shadow is cast through an adjustable quadrant, carried on a folding hinged gnomon & supported by a form of a small bird. The dial chapter includes four sets of engraved scales alternating in Roman & Arabic numeral made for latitudes. The dial incorporates a recessed compass with glass cover & latitudes of different European cities. The dial has its original leather covered traveling case with green velvet interior & silver lock. This Sundial is very similar to the Butterfield Sundial which belong to Louis XIV. Who passed it down to his great-great-great grandson Louis XVI who was be-headed in 1793 during the French Revolution. And the only thing Napoleon took was his Butterfield Sundial & Compass.
Category General Antiques and Collectibles
Medium silver
Distinguishing marks Michael Butterfield "Butterfield A Paris"
Condition Excellent
Size and dimensions of this item 2-1/8 inches
Date Period 1635-1724
History Pass down through my family
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