Inclination sundial

The handy sundial acquired for the collection is an example of equipment commonly used by travellers and sailors. It indicates the time at every latitude, regardless of the user’s location. It was invented by Peter Dolland, a designer of optical instruments at the end of the 18th century. A correct reading of the time is obtained by adjusting the sundial to the latitude by verifying the position of the dial face by an angle called inclination, i.e. by combining the data indicated by the compass with the sundial. The sundial has a pivoting rim with hour markers and a gnomon placed on its diameter. The rim can be raised to a latitude angle indicated on a pivoting plate in the shape of an arc segment.

The indications of the compass are protected by a glass, around which the brass collar is decorated with a simple engraved ornament with motifs of flowers, grids and wavy lines.

The bottom of the compass is engraved with the latitude of European cities of Augsburg, Paris, Kraków, Leipzig, as well as the signature of the sundial maker – Schreteger.

The clock is an object enriching the Wilanów collection.

AK