Portable sundial (front)

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This silver portable sundial was made in Paris in the 18th century, probably by Jean Chapotot. This photograph shows the instrument from above.

The dial is adaptable for use in a range of latitudes between 40 and 60 degrees. The folding gnomon is adjustable for latitude against a degree scale engraved on its side. Its support is shaped like a bird, whose beak acts as an indicator on the scale.

Dials of these are known as 'Butterfield' dials after Michael Butterfield, an Englishman who worked in Paris from around 1677 to 1724. Butterfield is supposed to have introduced this form of dial, which is an adaptation of the horizontal dial.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-100-102-703-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  T.1964.47
• Date: 18th century
  
• Material: Silver. Inscription: [Names of twenty towns and their latitudes on back]
  Sundial, portable
  
• Dimensions: 2.25" L overall
  
• What: Sundial, portable
  
• Subject: 20. TIME MEASUREMENT, Sundials (Departmental Classification)
  
• Who: Chapotot, Paris (Maker)
  
• Where: France, Paris
  
• Event:
• Description: Portable sundial of silver, Butterfield type with an adjustable bird gnomon, by Jean Chapotot, Paris, 18th century
  
• References:
  • For Butterfield dials, see Turner, G. L'E. Antique Scientific Instruments. Poole: 1980. pp 21-2 
• Translations:
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