Catalog Archive
Auction 115, Lot 52

"[Volvelle]", Apianus, Peter Bienewitz

Subject: Cartographic Miscellany

Period: 1560 (circa)

Publication: Cosmographia

Color: Black & White

Size:
5.8 x 8.6 inches
14.7 x 21.8 cm
Download High Resolution Image
(or just click on image to launch the Zoom viewer)

This incredible paper instrument is a functioning lunar clock designed to determine the time at night. It consists of an engraved circle showing 24 hours into which two rotating discs are mounted. In use, the hour angle of the moon is determined using an ordinary sundial. The inner disc of the instrument is set to show the current phase of the moon through the little window. The lunar dial is set to the hour angle determined with the sundial; this yields the position of the sun and thus indicates the time. Latin text on verso.

References:

Condition: B

Fully functional with a crisp impression and minor soil. Embossed county library stamp in outer ring.

Estimate: $220 - $300

Sold for: $275

Closed on 6/21/2006

Archived