Sundial with a globe

A miniature globe with a sphere set on a turned baluster with decorative narrowing and a wider foot. On its surface an engraved, dramatically simplified map of the world is applied, probably based on 16th century studies. The drawing of the map, the markings of names, meridians and parallels are blackened, the contours of the seas and oceans are accentuated by the engraving of short parallel lines in cinnabar. Arrows placed on water areas indicate ocean currents. The sphere is crossed at the level of the equator. A brass knob fixed at the top of the sphere allows to split the two parts connected inside by a brass vertical plate, acting as a gnomon. On the plane of intersection of the lower hemisphere is the sundial index, with hour markings in Roman numerals, half-hours in dots and dashes. The edge of the index is decorated with a rhythmically repeating serration motif.

The analysis of all aspects of this sundial will still require a great deal of research, both in the sphere of the markings placed on the surface of the sphere and in terms of the sundial functions.

The Wilanów collection was enriched by another different form of portable sundial.

AK