c.1820 English Miniature Ivory Globe with a Sundial.

Inv. #: e99

Maker: John Lilley

Circa: 1820

Size: 3.62" high x 2.25" wide

Price on request

The engraved and colored ivory terrestrial globe is hinged at the equator and opens to reveal a decorative sundial. The globe is elaborately engraved with geographical landmarks labeled in several languages and also has arrows in the waterways to mark the currents. It stands on a turned silver and ivory base and has a small know at the top. Inside is the decorative sundial. Both halves are elaborately inscribed and inked while the lower half has the sundial's dial with Roman numerals for the hours and a silver gnomon and the top half has a recess for the gnomon.

Ref:

This globe is identical in style, content and approach as one studied by the author Stefan Missinne, who published an article on one of Lilley's globes which is identified with Lilley's ink stamp (see .IMCOS Journal, Issue 79, Winter 1999, pgs 25 - 28).
In Missinne's article he explains that his globe which is nearly identical to this example had extensive scientific testing and was proved to be early 19th century.

Notes

John Lilley specialized in mathematical and nautical instruments.
This globe is the only known example that incorporates silver and has matching decorations on the interior's top half.

Inquire About This Clock

← Back to Gallery