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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Tool · Scientific instrument

David Beringer single-latitude sundial, circa 1780

Partially verified

The source reports that this engraved brass single-latitude sundial dates to circa 1780 and is attributed to David Beringer based on an engraved 'B' mark. The dial is mounted onto an ebony base and features an engraved circular scale divided into hour intervals from 4 to 12 and 1 to 8. A folding brass gnomon is set for a latitude of 49 or 50 degrees, matching geographic regions including southern Germany, Bavaria, the Rhineland, parts of Belgium, and northern France. The brass plate is fixed by corner screws over an inset compass well, measuring 5.9 by 5.9 by 4 cm.

Oblique high-angle view of the square brass sundial mounted on an ebony base with raised gnomon
Oblique high-angle view of the square brass sundial mounted on an ebony base with raised gnomon — Le Zograscope. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
www.proantic.com
Category
Tool · Scientific instrument
Maker / attribution
David Beringer
Reference
1803793
Catalogue / lot identifier
Source URL identifies the listing
Source-reported date
circa 1780
Country
Not established

Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.

Object description

Object Description and Attribution

This instrument is a single-latitude sundial constructed from engraved brass and mounted on an ebony base. The attribution to David Beringer is based on the presence of a 'B' mark.

The object measures 5.9 by 5.9 by 4 cm. The source lists its period as the 18th century, specifically circa 1780.

Evidence for this section
  • “Engraved brass single-latitude sundial mounted on an ebony base.”
  • “The dial bears a simple "B" mark, standing for David Beringer.”
  • “The dial measures 5.9 x 5.9 x 4 cm.”
  • “Circa 1780”

Dial and Gnomon Configuration

The brass dial plate is engraved with hour intervals labeled 4-12 and 1-8. It features a central circular cutout containing an inset compass well, situated beneath a brass bridge and the gnomon.

The folding gnomon is designed for a latitude of 49 or 50 degrees, which the source associates with regions including southern Germany, the Rhineland, Bavaria, Belgium, and northern France.

Evidence for this section
  • “The dial is beautifully engraved and divided into 4-12 and 1-8.”
  • “Central circular cutout revealing an inset compass well beneath a brass bridge and folding gnomon.”
  • “The folding gnomon is designed for a latitude of 49 or 50 degrees”

Construction and Condition

The brass plate is attached to the stepped wooden base using four slotted screws. The instrument is reported to be in good working order.

The source does not provide information regarding the condition or markings on the underside of the base.

Evidence for this section
  • “Square brass plate secured to a stepped dark wooden base with four slotted screws.”
  • “In good condition and in good working order.”

Open research questions

  • What specific characteristics distinguish a 'B' mark attributed to David Beringer from other makers or period stamps?
  • Are there records of Beringer sundials featuring this specific combination of materials and dimensions?
  • Does the current provenance include documentation earlier than the current dealer listing?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for David Beringer single-latitude sundial, circa 1780
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
Attributed MakerDavid Beringer“Artist: David Beringer”
MarkingLetter 'B' mark“The dial bears a simple "B" mark, standing for David Beringer.”
Intended Latitude49 or 50 degrees“The folding gnomon is designed for a latitude of 49 or 50 degrees”
Hour Divisions4-12 and 1-8“The dial is beautifully engraved and divided into 4-12 and 1-8.”
Dimensions5.9 x 5.9 x 4 cm“The dial measures 5.9 x 5.9 x 4 cm.”
Base MaterialEbony“mounted on an ebony base”
Dealer LocationParis, France“Le Zograscope - Paris, France”
Reference ID1803793“Reference (ID): 1803793”

Visible details

  • Square brass plate secured to a stepped dark wooden base with four slotted screws.
  • Central circular cutout revealing an inset compass well beneath a brass bridge and folding gnomon.
  • Engraved Roman and Arabic numerals indicating the hour track on the brass top plate.

Research qualifications

  • Attribution to David Beringer is based solely on a single stamped or engraved 'B' mark.
  • Country of origin is not explicitly stated in the source listing.
  • The underside of the base is not depicted.

Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.

Consulted source

Proantic: Single-latitude Sundial By Beringer, Circa 1780

Reviewed 2026-10-25 · Record 8a62651ca1

Terms in this record

Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.

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