Tool · Universal ring sundial

Universal Ring Sundial by Jonathan Sisson

Partially verified

This universal ring sundial is an 18th-century instrument fashioned from brass. It is part of the collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, assigned accession number 03.21.7. The object features a circular frame with engraved scales and a central pivoting bridge. The dial is signed by Jonathan Sisson, a maker active during the 18th century. The instrument measures 7 1/8 inches (18.1 cm) in diameter. The design includes a suspension ring for use when the device is positioned for operation. The central bridge contains linear markings and abbreviations corresponding to months and seasonal data. The Metropolitan Museum of Art acquired the object as a gift from Mrs. Stephen D. Tucker in 1903. This horological tool is classified within the museum's European Sculpture and Decorative Arts department.

A brass universal ring sundial, featuring an outer ring with Roman numerals and a central bridge, signed by Jonathan Sisson. — The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source: orbiscollectibles.com
Category: Tool · Universal ring sundial
Maker / attribution: Jonathan Sisson or Jeremiah Sisson
Reference: 03.21.7
Catalogue / lot identifier: 03.21.7
Source-reported date: 18th century
Source-reported place: British

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 and Materials

The instrument is a universal ring sundial constructed from brass. It features a large outer ring graduated with Roman numerals along its inner circumference. The primary structure is circular, intended to be held or suspended by a ring mounted at the top of the frame.

A central bridge spans the interior of the dial, which is inscribed with astronomical or calendrical information. This bridge includes markings for months and zodiacal signs, allowing the user to adjust the sundial for latitude and seasonal variations.

Evidence for this section

“The museum records its materials as: Brass.”
“Diameter: 7 1/8 in. (18.1 cm).”

Maker and Identification

The dial is signed by Jonathan Sisson, a maker associated with the 18th century. Museum documentation indicates uncertainty regarding the specific individual, noting dates for Jonathan Sisson (1690–1749 or 1760) and mentioning Jeremiah Sisson as a potential association.

The object is held by The Metropolitan Museum of Art as part of its collection of horological instruments. It is assigned the accession number 03.21.7 within the department of European Sculpture and Decorative Arts.

Evidence for this section

“Universal ring sundial made by Jonathan Sisson (1690–1749 or 1760)”
“The museum records the maker as Jonathan Sisson|Jeremiah Sisson”

Provenance and Acquisition

This sundial entered the collection of The Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1903. It was acquired as a gift from Mrs. Stephen D. Tucker.

The museum maintains the object under the department of European Sculpture and Decorative Arts, where it is documented as part of the permanent collection.

Evidence for this section

“Credit line: Gift of Mrs. Stephen D. Tucker, 1903.”

Open research questions

Does the inscription on the dial provide enough evidence to distinguish between Jonathan and Jeremiah Sisson?
Are there specific horological references that define the production techniques of Sisson's universal ring sundials?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Universal Ring Sundial by Jonathan Sisson
Field	Source-reported value	Source quotation
Maker	Jonathan Sisson	“Universal ring sundial made by Jonathan Sisson”
Accession Number	03.21.7	“The Metropolitan Museum of Art holds this object as 03.21.7.”
Material	Brass	“The museum records its materials as: Brass.”
Dimensions	18.1 cm	“Diameter: 7 1/8 in. (18.1 cm).”
Provenance	Gift of Mrs. Stephen D. Tucker, 1903	“Credit line: Gift of Mrs. Stephen D. Tucker, 1903.”
Origin	British	“from British.”
Department	European Sculpture and Decorative Arts	“Department: European Sculpture and Decorative Arts.”

Visible details

Engraved Roman numerals on the circular dial frame
Central bridge with month abbreviations and zodiac symbols
Small suspension ring attached at the top of the frame
Accession number '03.21.7' engraved on the inner ring

Research qualifications

Attribution to Jonathan Sisson or Jeremiah Sisson remains uncertain due to overlapping active dates
Exact date within the 18th century is not specified

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

Consulted source

Universal ring sundial by Jonathan Sisson or, British, 18th century

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record 56816ef721

Terms in this record

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

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