Exceptionally rare portable sundial c1680 by Louis Chapotot Paris of the Butterfield type with fully engraved compass. A near perfect example brass sundial made by the well known firm of Chapotot of Paris, of quality surely surpassing Butterfield itself. An important and fashionable tool for travelers to regularly set their early watches, which were less accurate. Features a hinged, adjustable bird-shaped gnomon, a recessed compass, and an octagonal plate engraved with multiple hour scales for different latitudes. The octagonal plate measures 64 cm L x 57 cm W x 8.9 cm. The compass card is marked with the cardinal points, N, S, ES and OU. The outer band is in Roman numerals, I through XII and the two inner bands are in Arabic numerals 1 through 12. The folding adjustable gnomon is in the form of a bird with a scale of 40, 50 and 60 degrees of the sun’s altitude on its edge. Inside the three bands it is signed with the maker’s name, CHAPOTOT A PARIS. On the reverse are twenty cities, each with their altitude including the important Londres, plus Paris, Marseille, Amsterdam, Vienne, Rome, Turin, Naples… See images which form part of the description. The compass card bowl has a superbly engraved floral rosette design. There is a support leg at the bottom end to balance the dial when laid on a flat surface. Complete with blue shagrine leather case velvet lined. Downsizing collection and a very reluctant sale. Investment potential and one for the true horological connoiser.
