BRASS SUNDIAL-COMPASS. BUTTERFIELD, MICHAEL (1635-1724). PARIS, CIRCA 1700.
Antiques -
Reference: ZE313
Pocket sundial compass, with case. Bronze. BUTTERFIELD, Michael (1635-1724). Paris, circa 1700. Pocket sundial made of engraved metal, with a gnomon in the shape of a bird with a triangle with an engraved tree, and a compass with a needle in dark metal; in this area there is also engraved “Butterfield AParis 43”. On the back, the latitudes of various cities (Madrid, Paris, Barcelona, etc.) have been engraved, and a decorative architectural element has been placed in the centre of the piece. The case, adapted to the piece, has a lined interior to better protect it. Michael Butterfield was a mathematician who made measuring instruments based in Paris from the last quarter of the 17th century onwards and continued working until the beginning of the 18th century. Although he was of English origin, he collaborated with the Royal Academy of Sciences in the French capital and worked as an engineer at the court of Louis XIV. It is known that he opened a shop in Saint-Germain in 1677, from which he sold sundials. Similar model in silver auctioned at Christies London on November 17, 2009. Lot 106
· Size: 7,5x6,5x1 cms / Estuche 8,5x7,5x2 cms
2.900 €
