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Navicula Dial
Unsigned
15th century ?; origin unknown
Brass; 82 mm in width

This is an example of one of the most rare and charming designs of early sundial, the 'navicula' or 'little ship of Venice'.

The navicula is a form of altitude dial similar to the Regiomontanus type. The main body, engraved with the hour-lines, is given the shape of a ship; in this case the sights are incorporated into a castellated 'poop' and 'forecastle'. The 'mast' carries the suspension for a plumb-line, adjustable for date and latitude.

Museum of the History of Science, Oxford
Inventory number 54358

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Basic URL: http://www.mhs.ox.ac.uk/epact/catalogue.php?ENumber=50611

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