An exceptional Claude Langlois signed sterling silver sundial and compass dates to the earlier part of the 18th century.

Entirely handmade and hand engraved, the top has a fold-up and down silver gnomon with a bird motif. It is engraved back slides up and down to adjust the numbered angles. A glass-covered working and accurate compass rests at the bottom.

Artistically and exquisitely hand engraved, the top surfaces are covered with Roman numbers, Arabic numbers, and designs. To the reverse, numerous French cities and towns list their corresponding latitudes.

Often this type of sundial is referred to as a Butterfield type, named for an English contemporary of Langlois (Michael Butterfield). While better known, Langlois's instruments are considered finer for precision and in their workmanship.

Only a few of the wealthiest could afford such a rare instrument, particularly of silver. A French duty mark is evident on the underside.

This evokes the connection between the heavens and the earth, time and place, and our human connection to the cosmos.

Historical Notes: Claude Langlois is renowned as one of the finest instrument makers in Europe during the early to mid 18th century. Born in France, he lived from about 1700 to 1756. Not a great deal is known of his life, but around 1740, he was appointed the "ingénieur en instruments de mathématiques" at the French Académie des Sciences.

So coveted for his expertise, he became the official instrument maker for various French astronomers including the Abbé de Lacaille, Cassini II, and Cassini de Thury.

The Pairs Observatory utilized his expertise in a number of major commissions and contracts. These included large wall quadrants, for the measurement of angles of the sun up to 90 degrees.

Thanks to Wikipedia, and Encyclopedia.com for information on Langlois.