Catalog Archive
Auction 106, Lot 46

"[Volvelle]", Galluci, Giovanni Paolo

Subject: Cartographic Miscellany

Period: 1657 (published)

Publication: Theatro del Mundo ye del tiempo

Color: Black & White

Size:
6.5 x 6.5 inches
16.5 x 16.5 cm
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This magnificent volvelle with 4 rotating parts was referred to as Ptolemy's Instrument or a Universal Instrument. It can be used to tell time in any latitude, the times of sunrise and sunset, and the lengths of day and night in any latitude. The four rotating discs are mounted onto a 360-degree sphere with a string. The innermost disc is in manuscript ink rather than printed and appears to be original to the publication or perhaps the instrument was repaired at a very early time

References:

Condition: A

Bit of soil in blank margins.

Estimate: $350 - $450

Sold for: $230

Closed on 3/3/2004

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