18th Century Irish Rustic Stone and Slate Sundial

This rustic sundial was hand-carved from stone and features its original and scribed slate dial plate with replaced bronze gnomon. Although the octagonal dial plate has suffered losses over the years, it is beautifully engraved with a central mariner's star, signed "James (illegible)" and dated "17 (illegible)". We replaced the gnomon with a hand-forged bronze one after the original was broken in half during shipment. Judging from the position of the gnomon, the dial was most probably made for a location in the far North, possibly Ulster. It would be perfect in an informal garden, placed in the center of wildflowers and azaleas. Please note there are cracks and losses to the slate dial plate; nicks to the edges of the stone pedestal with repairs, and darkened stone color secondary to the pervasive coal dust in the north of Ireland.

Northern Ireland, CA 1780

H: 40 in D: 17 in W: 17 in

Ref: SUN 1006

**18th Century Irish Rustic Stone and Slate Sundial**

Rare English Fireclay Sundial by Compton Potteries

This is, by far, our most unusual sundial, and one of our all-time favorites. It features Atlas holding the "world," bisected by a gorgeous and unusual verdigris demi-lune bronze gnomon. Even though Atlas has lost his head, the "world" has been repaired, the top piece and octagonal 22" diameter base have numerous chips, dings, repairs and losses, nothing could be be more appropriately allegorical today. The riser is in near perfect condition. In heavily-weathered and beautifully-patinated surface, we discovered this beauty in a private Sheffield, England garden during a downpour but just had to have it. And because it is made of fireclay, it will perform well in cold climates, but should be covered in the winter. In 3 parts. Fair condition.

England, CA 1900.

H: 45 in D: 22 in

Ref: SUN 1007

SOLD

SOLD