Signed: IO. MAR MANCINVS .F.

c. 1600

  Fig. 73          Fig. 85

Among the scales on the pivoted arms of the instrument are those of the geometrical quadrant, marked 'VMBRA VERSA', 'VMB[RA] MED[IA]' and 'VMBRA RECTA'. The central arm, in addition to a degree scale, has positions marked for the number of sides of a polygon corresponding to the angle formed by two pivoted arms as arranged in the illustration (figure 82) to coincide with the outer angle of the corner of a fortification.

The handle is shaped, richly decorated and gilt. The silvered compass box incorporated into the handle is marked with the initials of the Italian names for the winds, and the reverse of this box has an engraving of Christ on the cross.

In its folded configuration (figure 85) the radio latino resembles a weapon and is carried in a scabbard (cf. figures 73 and 84).

Length (folded): 460 mm

Billmeir Collection

Inventory no. 37,525