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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Tool · Scientific instrument (compass-sundial)

Qajar Engraved Brass Compass-Sundial Instrument

Partially verified

Described as a nineteenth-century Qajar engraved brass compass-sundial instrument (muwaqqit) from Iran, this circular piece measures 14 cm in diameter. The brass disc is fitted with an upper ring-shaped bail for suspension and features a scalloped or fluted outer rim. The front surface is decorated with concentric engraved bands featuring figurative and calligraphic motifs, a central movable alidade sighting arm, and an inset lower compass with pierced tracery. The catalogue records that the repoussé reverse displays a central radiating rosette surrounded by a scaled rim.

Front face of the engraved brass Qajar compass-sundial showing alidade, lower compass window, and suspension ring
Front face of the engraved brass Qajar compass-sundial showing alidade, lower compass window, and suspension ring — Millon. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
drouot.com
Category
Tool · Scientific instrument (compass-sundial)
Maker / attribution
Not established
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
61
Source-reported date
19th century
Country
Iran

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

Physical Description

The instrument is composed of a circular brass body measuring 14 cm in diameter. It is designed for suspension, featuring a ring-shaped bail attached to the upper edge of the circular plate.

The front surface is equipped with a movable alidade and a compass housing located near the lower rim. The catalogue notes that a central element on the front face is currently missing.

Evidence for this section
  • “Engraved brass, consisting of a circular body suspended by a ring-shaped bail.”
  • “The front features a movable alidade and a compass with a magnetic needle.”
  • “Condition: oxidation, chips in the gilding, central element on the front missing.”
  • “Diameter: 14 cm”

Reverse and Decorative Features

The reverse of the brass plate is finished with repoussé engraving. This side features a central radiating rosette motif, which is enclosed by a scaled rim.

Specific decorative details on the front, such as figurative or calligraphic motifs, are mentioned in the broader attribution but are not explicitly described in the provided source text beyond the mention of the brass being engraved.

Evidence for this section
  • “The back, engraved in repoussé, features a central radiating rosette surrounded by a scaled rim.”

Condition and Attribution

The object is attributed to the 19th-century Qajar period in Iran. The auction records characterize the instrument as a 'muwaqqit' (compass-sundial instrument).

Documented condition issues include surface oxidation and chips in the gilding.

Evidence for this section
  • “A Qajar engraved brass compass-sundial instrument (muwaqqit), Iran, 19th century”
  • “Condition: oxidation, chips in the gilding”

Open research questions

  • What is the original configuration of the missing central element on the front?
  • Does the 'muwaqqit' designation imply specific astronomical functions beyond the presence of the alidade and compass?
  • What specific figurative or calligraphic content is present on the front face, as the source text refers to the object as 'engraved' but does not specify the subject matter?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Qajar Engraved Brass Compass-Sundial Instrument
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
Instrument TypeCompass-sundial instrument (muwaqqit)“A Qajar engraved brass compass-sundial instrument (muwaqqit), Iran, 19th century”
Diameter14 cm“Diameter: 14 cm”
Construction and BailCircular engraved brass body suspended by a ring-shaped bail“Engraved brass, consisting of a circular body suspended by a ring-shaped bail.”
Front FeaturesMovable alidade and compass with magnetic needle“The front features a movable alidade and a compass with a magnetic needle.”
ConditionOxidation, chips in gilding, missing central front element“Condition: oxidation, chips in the gilding, central element on the front missing.”
Instrument TypeCompass-sundial (muwaqqit)“A Qajar engraved brass compass-sundial instrument (muwaqqit)”
Diameter14 cm“Diameter: 14 cm”
MaterialEngraved brass“Engraved brass”

Visible details

  • Circular brass plate with a raised, serrated or fluted outer rim.
  • Bail suspension ring mounted at the top edge.
  • Surface engraved with concentric bands displaying figurative scenes, animals, and calligraphic inscriptions.
  • Centrally mounted pivoting sighting arm (alidade).
  • Circular compass aperture located near the lower rim with openwork pierced tracery.

Research qualifications

  • The auction house notes oxidation, losses/chips to gilding, and a missing central element on the front.
  • Reverse repoussé work and compass needle mentioned in the source description are not visible in the provided primary view.

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

Consulted source

Iran, Qajar Art, 19th centuryEngraved brass, co... | Islamic art: bids

Reviewed 2026-10-25 · Record 3cabf2c20d

Terms in this record

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