Bidspirit auction | Marcquart Paris Cased Silver Octagonal

Marcquart Paris Cased Silver Octagonal Sundial & Compass, 18th Century France - An exquisite 18th-century octagonal pocket sundial and compass by the noted Parisian scientific instrument maker, Marcquart. Crafted from silver or silvered brass, the piece features intricate, high-quality hand-engraving throughout. The dial plate is marked with multiple concentric hour rings in both Roman and Arabic numerals, with the center bearing the signature ”Marcquart” and ”A Paris.” The hinged gnomon, which casts the shadow to indicate the time, is artfully fashioned in the form of a bird. An integrated magnetic compass with a glass cover allows for correct orientation. The dial is specifically calibrated ”Pour 50 Degrez” (For 50 Degrees). The reverse is meticulously engraved with a list of numerous European cities and their corresponding latitudes, including Paris, Milan, Lisbon, and Vienna, enabling accurate adjustments for travel. The instrument is housed in its original fitted, octagonal, leather-bound case with a velvet-lined interior, reflecting its period of origin and use as a sophisticated travel accessory. This beautiful Antique sundial kind BUTTERFIELD sign MACQUART- PARIS. Gnomon shaped silver bird, three ladders' schedules for latitudes of 40, 45, 50 degrees of rose des vents. Latitudes of 22 cities and major places in the zone plate and the box the compass, end of 17th Century or early 18th Century master silversmith: Marquart Henry engineer of the King in 1691 Dimensions Box: 8 cm / 3.14-inch / Sundial: 6 cm / 2.36 inch Shipping: Basel Auction House will refer local third-party USA and international shippers. Purchase pick up available upon request. The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email. Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Basel Auction House shall have no responsibility for any error or omission. It is the Buyer's responsibility to inspect each lot and deem their own opinions on Condition, Description, Provenance, and Validity before purchasing. Please make an appointment to preview the item. REMEMBER ALL SALES ARE FINAL AND ALL ITEMS ARE SOLD AS-IS, WHERE IS.