Tool · Scientific instrument (travel sundial)
This lot features an octagonal Parisian silver travel sundial signed 'Butterfield AParis' on the plaque, dated by the auction house to the last quarter of the 18th century. Named after Michael Butterfield, instruments of this type display polhodes between 40° and 60° and are engraved with the latitudes of 31 French towns. The piece incorporates an inset glazed magnetic compass and an adjustable folding gnomon bird pointer. It is housed in an octagonal green leather fitted case with worn velvet lining, measuring 7.8 cm in length and 3.5 cm in height when extended.
Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.
This instrument is identified as a Parisian silver travel sundial. It is signed on the plaque and measures 7.8 cm in length, with a height of 3.5 cm when in the extended position.
The sundial is housed in a green leather case. The case is noted to be warped, and its velvet lining is worn.
The horizontal plate displays polhodes between 40° and 60° and is engraved with the polhodes of 31 French towns. The instrument features a magnetic compass with a glazed cover.
The sundial includes a folding gnomon. The provided observations further describe this gnomon as having an adjustable latitude quadrant index pointer shaped like a bird.
The item is dated to the last quarter of the 18th century. It is identified as a 'Butterfield Type,' a designation named after the English mechanic Michael Butterfield, who held the title 'Ingénieur du Roi pour les instruments de mathématique' in Paris.
While such instruments were popular in the late 18th century, the source notes that their fine scales were apparently difficult to use.
| Field | Source-reported value | Source quotation |
|---|---|---|
| Maker's signature | Butterfield AParis | “Signed to the plaque: "Butterfield AParis".” |
| Polhodes range | 40° to 60° | “Showing the polhodes between 40° and 60°” |
| Engravings | Polhodes of 31 French towns | “engraved with the polhodes of 31 French towns.” |
| Dimensions | H 3.5 cm when extended, L 7.8 cm | “H when extended 3.5, L 7.8 cm.” |
| Date | Last quarter 18th C. | “Last quarter 18th C.” |
| Provenance | Aristocratic ownership, Belgium | “Provenance Aristocratic ownership, Belgium.” |
Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.
Reviewed 2026-10-25 · Record 309f4095b8
