A fine star-shaped polyhedral dial
German, 16th century
gilt brass eight-pointed star (dimensions 55 x 47 x 18mm.), the bottom point fluted and with a suspension hole, the hour lines running around the facets with punched marks for half-hours, the top engraved with floral motifs, a moving disc bearing a flower turns to reveal a gap with two pivots for a compass (missing) that would remain horizontal when in use, a hinged strut allows it to be adjusted for latitude, the base engraved on both sides with floral motifs, punched ELEVATIO POLI for 32°-66°, numbered 40, 50, 60, three six-pointed stars to the left of this scale, in a (later) fitted leather case
2in. (5cm) long
A fine star-shaped polyhedral dial
German, 16th century
gilt brass eight-pointed star (dimensions 55 x 47 x 18mm.), the bottom point fluted and with a suspension hole, the hour lines running around the facets with punched marks for half-hours, the top engraved with floral motifs, a moving disc bearing a flower turns to reveal a gap with two pivots for a compass (missing) that would remain horizontal when in use, a hinged strut allows it to be adjusted for latitude, the base engraved on both sides with floral motifs, punched ELEVATIO POLI for 32°-66°, numbered 40, 50, 60, three six-pointed stars to the left of this scale, in a (later) fitted leather case
2in. (5cm) long
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