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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Tool · Nuremberg polyhedral dial

Polyhedral Sundial

Partially verified

This polyhedral sundial, inventory number 55574 in the Museum of the History of Science, Oxford, is constructed from ivory and gilt brass. Measuring 82 x 58 x 54 mm, it is a rectangular parallelepiped form signed by the maker Hans Tucher and dated 1596. While Tucher is noted for producing ivory diptych dials, this polyhedral instrument represents an unusual variation from his workshop. The object features five distinct sundials engraved across its faces, alongside a lunar volvelle designed for solar time calculation using moonlight shadows. The construction incorporates various time-tracking methodologies, including Italian and common hours, day length indication, and zodiacal positioning.

Side view of the polyhedral sundial showing the OCCIDENS face and the horizontal top dial face with the missing compass recess.
Side view of the polyhedral sundial showing the OCCIDENS face and the horizontal top dial face with the missing compass recess. — Museum of the History of Science, Oxford. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
www.mhs.ox.ac.uk
Category
Tool · Nuremberg polyhedral dial
Maker / attribution
Hans Tucher
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
55574
Source-reported date
1596
Source-reported place
Nuremberg

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

Construction and Design

The sundial is designed as a rectangular parallelepiped, utilizing ivory as the primary material for its panels, which are framed by gilt brass edging. The compact dimensions of 82 x 58 x 54 mm reflect the portability required for such scientific instruments during the late 16th century. The maker, Hans Tucher of Nuremberg, applied precise engraving to all six faces to maximize the instrument's utility across different light conditions and timekeeping standards.

The faces contain integrated sundials and a lunar volvelle, demonstrating a multifunctional approach to horology. Each face is stamped with identifying labels or instructions, such as 'OCCIDENS' for the west-facing dial and 'ORIENS' for the east-facing dial. The design incorporates both standard and Italian hour systems, providing versatility for the user. Although the object remains in a structurally recognizable state, evidence of its historical usage and the passage of time is present in the missing components, specifically the compass assembly and the lunar volvelle plate.

Evidence for this section
  • “The six faces of the polyhedral dial are stamped and engraved as follows.”
  • “This ivory polyhedral dial is an unusual product from his workshop.”

Horological Features

The functionality of the dial is multifaceted, incorporating specialized markings for latitude and solar-lunar tracking. One face features a horizontal dial with specific hour lines calibrated for latitudes 42, 48, and 54 degrees, which indicates the instrument was intended for varied geographical application. Additionally, a specific face is dedicated to the length of the day and the sun's position within the zodiac, supported by a detailed Latin inscription detailing the sun's seasonal path.

A lunar volvelle is integrated into the design, allowing the user to find solar time through lunar shadows. Despite the absence of the rotating plate, the base remains marked with concentric scales for the age of the moon (1 to 29) and the hours (1 to 12).

Evidence for this section
  • “The faces of the rectangular parallelepiped carry no fewer than five sundials of different types, and a lunar volvelle (now incomplete)”
  • “A vertical pin-gnomon dial for length of day and the sun's position in the zodiac.”

Signatures and Inscriptions

The object is clearly attributed to Hans Tucher, a known maker of ivory dials in Nuremberg, through both a signature and a specific maker's mark. The signature 'H D 1596' is accompanied by a serpent, the personal mark associated with Tucher's workshop.

Beyond the maker's signature, the dial includes essential functional advice engraved directly into the ivory. This inscription is positioned alongside the other technical markings, ensuring the operator could access crucial navigational and operational safety information during active use of the instrument.

Evidence for this section
  • “Signed 'H D 1596', stamped with Tucher's mark - a serpent”
  • “the advice 'COMPASSVS PROPE FERRVM NON RECTE ASSIGNARE POTEST.' (near iron the compass cannot point properly).”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific mechanical method by which the missing volvelle plate would have been attached to the base?
  • Are there similar surviving examples of Tucher polyhedral dials that show the original configuration of the compass housing?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Polyhedral Sundial
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerHans Tucher“Signed by Hans Tucher”
Date1596“Dated 1596”
MaterialsIvory and gilt brass“Ivory and gilt brass; 82 x 58 x 54 mm”
Inscribed WarningLatin advice on compass use near iron“COMPASSVS PROPE FERRVM NON RECTE ASSIGNARE POTEST.”
Horizontal DialNumbered 4 to 12 to 8 for latitudes 42, 48, and 54 degrees“A horizontal dial with hour lines for '42', '48' and '54' degrees”
Maker's MarkSerpent mark“stamped with Tucher's mark - a serpent”
Inventory Number55574“Inventory number 55574”

Visible details

  • Rectangular parallelepiped form featuring inset ivory panels with dark engraved markings
  • Gilt brass framework reinforcing the edges of the ivory blocks
  • Engraved inscriptions include Latin warnings regarding magnetic interference and functional directions
  • Central circular recess on one face previously housed a magnetic compass

Research qualifications

  • The internal components of the compass, including the needle and glazed cover, are missing
  • The volvelle plate intended to rotate above the lunar scales is absent

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

Consulted source

Polyhedral Dial

Reviewed 2026-10-26 · Record c53eef8fd1

Terms in this record

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

Other nuremberg polyhedral dial records