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Nocturnal
    • Setting:
      Room II
    • Maker:
      Pineau [attr.]
    • Place:
      French
    • Date:
      ca. 1600
    • Materials:
      gilt brass
    • Dimensions:
      diameter 54 mm
    • Inventory:
      2502
    • Nocturnal (Inv. 2502)
    • Nocturnal (Inv. 2502)

Dial consisting of a disk engraved on both sides. The recto bears markings for the zodiac signs, months, and days. On it rotates a circle divided into 29 parts and carrying two indexes; on this circle is a small rotating disk fitted with a gnomon, a compass, and an index with the French inscription "Ligne de foy" [line of trust]. On this side the instrument could be used either as a sundial or a nocturnal. The verso carries the hour lines and a small tilting gnomon. There is a suspension ring. The inscriptions in French and the word "Pign" engraved on the index suggest the instrument was made by a craftsman named Pineau, on whom we have no information. Probable provenance: Medici collections.

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