Sundial, Compass, Pocket Sundial, Brass, Antique, 1875
£195
A Victorian Timepiece: A Gilded Folding Pocket Sundial
Victorian Folding Pocket Sundial with Compass, J. Baum & Co, Birmingham, Dated 1875
A finely crafted Victorian folding pocket sundial produced by J. Baum & Co of Birmingham and dated 1875, representing an attractive example of nineteenth-century portable scientific instrumentation. Executed in gilt metal, the compact hinged case opens to reveal an engraved dial plate decorated with delicate foliate scrollwork and Roman numerals, reflecting the Victorian combination of scientific precision and ornamental design.
Description
A Victorian Timepiece: A Gilded Folding Pocket Sundial
Victorian Folding Pocket Sundial with Compass, J. Baum & Co, Birmingham, Dated 1875
A finely crafted Victorian folding pocket sundial produced by J. Baum & Co of Birmingham and dated 1875, representing an attractive example of nineteenth-century portable scientific instrumentation. Executed in gilt metal, the compact hinged case opens to reveal an engraved dial plate decorated with delicate foliate scrollwork and Roman numerals, reflecting the Victorian combination of scientific precision and ornamental design.
The interior lid houses a small inset compass used to correctly orient the instrument when determining solar time. A hinged triangular gnomon rises from the dial to cast the shadow required for reading the time, demonstrating the clever and practical engineering typical of portable sundials produced during the period.
Compact and elegant in form, this pocket instrument would originally have been carried by travellers, surveyors or gentlemen with an interest in scientific instruments. The reverse bears the maker’s stamp for J. Baum & Co of Birmingham, a known manufacturer of mathematical and navigational instruments during the nineteenth century.
The sundial remains in good antique condition with age-related wear and surface marks consistent with use. The gilt surface shows areas of rubbing, and the compass glass has a small crack with some age-related clouding, though the compass needle remains visible. The hinge functions well, and the instrument retains strong decorative and collectable appeal.
A charming and collectable Victorian scientific curiosity combining functionality with decorative engraving, ideal for collectors of antique sundials, compasses and nineteenth-century scientific instruments.
Most objects sold in our gallery are antiques, vintage or used; therefore, they will show signs of being antique, vintage or used. There may be signs of scratches, discolouration, chips, cracks, wear and tear, unknown manufacturers and/or patterns. Please see the photographs as they form part of the description. In some countries, overseas buyers may be required to pay import duties, taxes, or fees. All items are meticulously wrapped and prepared for both UK and international shipping. Overseas buyers, please get in touch for courier charges.
Clocks, Mantle clocks, music boxes, and other similar items may require service after transportation and are sold as decorative pieces. Please note, whilst clocks currently work, during transport, all clocks are moved around a lot, and therefore, they may require setting up upon receiving them, as well as the possibility of requiring professional assistance or service, as they can get ‘stuck’. There is no guarantee that the clock will work smoothly after it has been transported. Leans Gallery does not guarantee any barometers, clocks, or music boxes to be in working order.
