Epact Scientific Instruments of Medieval and Renaissance Europe

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Equinoctial Dial
Signed by Hieronymus de Arresse
Dated 1598; Spanish
Brass; 62 x 60 x 15 mm

This instrument is a universal equinoctial sundial, adjustable for use in latitudes from 20 to 60?. However its Spanish maker clearly imagined that it would be used in a more limited geographical setting: it carries a table with the latitudes of 24 towns and cities, all of them in Spain or Portugal and in the range 37 to 44?.

The instrument is incomplete and lacks its gnomon and the direction plate and needle of the compass, as well as a rotating disc for the lid. One feature which does survive is an engraving of the figures of St Francis of Assisi and St Anthony of Padua, along with a morally improving Latin inscription that we should benefit others and not live only for our own sake.

Museum of the History of Science, Oxford
Inventory number 38577

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