Gnomon Collection

An engraving depicting a Ham dial so called because of its shape. The gnomon is on the left
5311549 An engraving depicting a Ham dial so called because of its shape. The gnomon is on the left, and the months are marked off at the bottom to allow for the different lengths of shadow at

The Sundial (oil on brown paper)
3744183 The Sundial (oil on brown paper) by Pott, Laslett John (1837-98); Nottingham City Museums and Galleries (Nottingham Castle); (add.info)

Tempus Fugit Date: 1941

Illustration of man and boy standing at an early sundial, using a stick known as gnomon, Ancient Egypt

Transporting the Montecitorio Obelisk
Roman Cargo Ship, reconstructed in the form of a raft, being used to transport the Montecitorio obelisk from Egypt to Rome in 10 BC

GNOMON
The GNOMON of the ancient Babylonians : time is measured by how long it takes for the columns shadow to move from one point to the next

Solar gnomon and sundial, Egyptian civilization
Egyptian civilization. Solar gnomon and sundial

Geometrical Constructions and Principles C017 / 3515
Plate from 18th century encyclopedia showing the analysis of various geometrical concepts and constructions

Horizontal Sundial with Wind Rose
Horizontal plane sundial from the Roman city of Aquileia (2nd century AD). The dial is formed by eleven hour lines, the shortest of which is the noon line which runs from north to south

Vertical Sundial. This sundial shows the local time, the month, the sign of the zodiac and noon at a number of international locations

Sundial at Griffith Observatory, LA
Sundial at Griffith Observatory, Los Angeles

Sundial

Face of a sundial

Sundial at Prague Observatory
Sundials and astronomical calendar at Stefaniks Observatory on Petrin Hill, Prague, Czech Republic

Botanical sundial, 19th century
Botanical sundial. This sundial was located in one of the parks or horticultural gardens in Chicago, USA, which included several such sundials

Sundial at Laugharne Castle, South Wales

Cylinder sun dial
Engraving of a cylinder sun dial. Also known as a shepherds or pillar dial, this is a latitude-specific design and so is not suitable for travel

Bianchinis Meridian Line
In 1702 Pope Clement XI inaugrated the meridian line he commissioned from the mathematician and astronomer, Francesco Bianchini.Its purpose was to verify the Gregorian calendar reforms of 1582

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"Gnomon: Unveiling the Ancient Art of Timekeeping" Step into the world of timekeeping through the fascinating history of gnomons. From ancient civilizations to modern-day marvels, these captivating devices have stood as silent witnesses to the passage of time. In "The Sundial (oil on brown paper), " we are transported back to 1941, where an artist captures the essence of a sundial with intricate details and warm hues. Tempus Fugit - time flies, reminding us that every moment is precious. At Saint Sulpice Church in Saint-Germain-des-Pres, a gnomon line and obelisk stand tall, marking not only hours but also signaling Easter's arrival. A testament to human ingenuity blending with religious traditions. Traveling further back in time, we find ourselves in Ancient Egypt. An illustration depicts a man and boy standing beside an early sundial using a stick known as a gnomon. This simple yet effective tool allowed them to track time amidst the grandeur of their civilization. Witnessing monumental feats becomes possible when observing scenes like "Transporting the Montecitorio Obelisk. " The sheer size and weight demonstrate how dedicated individuals moved these structures while incorporating solar gnomons for accurate measurements. Egyptian civilization showcases its mastery once again with a solar gnomon and sundial combination—an ingenious way to harness sunlight for practical purposes while simultaneously measuring time's passing moments. Delving deeper into mathematical precision, "Geometrical Constructions and Principles C017 / 3515" reveals how geometry played an essential role in creating precise sundials that could withstand centuries' test. A horizontal sundial adorned with a wind rose takes us on another journey through time—its elegant design combining functionality with aesthetic appeal—a true marriage between science and artistry.