A 17TH-CENTURY DOUBLE HORIZONTAL BRASS SUNDIAL BY ELIAS ALLEN, LONDON, C.1640
signed in the chapter ring between 'VII' and 'IIII' Elias Allen fecit, octagonal form, the corners pierced for screws, engraved plate for solar declination and hours, gnomon (later) underpinned at centre -- 13in. (33cm.) diameter
Invented by his friend William Oughtred (1575-1660), Elias Allen (1588-1663) produced several of these dials although this one is of an unusually large size, the Greenwich example and the few seen at auction being 8in. diameter examples. Known as "double horizontal" dials because they have two scales, they were useful not only for telling the time but for demonstrating the motion of the sun throughout the day and year, being able to also calculate the altitude of the Sun and its azimuth as well as showing the position of the Sun on the ecliptic. As an instrument, they enjoyed a flourish around the mid-late 17th Century, but not many appear to have been made post-1700.

Condition Report
Spot traces of original gilding remain; engraving strong; gnomon replaced with a conventional one for solar hours alone.

We are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of this property. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Charles Miller Ltd is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD “AS IS” IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE.