Horizontal Brass Sundial Signed ‘butterfield Aparis’ With Original Black Shagreen Case.

Horizontal brass sundial signed ‘Butterfield AParis’ with original black shagreen case.  

The upper plate is engraved with four horary scales, in Arabic and Roman numerals, for the latitudes of 43, 46, 49 and 52 degrees. The signature is engraved in the centre with a foliage decoration, topped by a folding gnomon with a bird for latitudes of 40 to 60 degrees. On the opposite side is a compass engraved with eight cardinal points, north indicated by a fleur-de-lis, and a blued steel needle with a brass pivot, all topped with glass.

The back is engraved with a list of ten cities and their latitudes, as is the base of the compass, which features six cities and the inscription ‘Premier Cadran’ (First Quadrant). The gnomon spring is entirely engraved with stylised acanthus leaves.  

Original black shagreen case lined with green silk velvet.  

Very good condition with remarkable engraving finesse.  

Dimensions (dial): 6.5 cm long x 5.8 cm wide.

France made circa 1690.