Lot 148
- 148
An unusual Sundial-type instrument with compass, India, Dated 1293 AH/1876-7 AD
Estimate
4,000 - 6,000 GBP
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Description
- Brass
the instrument bears a series of scales with numbers punched in European numerals, fitted with a pair of cross-wires and a set of plumb-bobs, attached to the base is a magnetic compass
Condition
In good overall condition, the compass pointer has become unattached from the pin, some pitting, as viewed.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. 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 Sotheby's 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."
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. 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 Sotheby's 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."
Catalogue Note
inscriptions
sani'-e in compass mangrin shagerd-e rashid lala makhan la'l sana 1293 hijri
'Maker of this Mangrin/Mongrin (?) compass is a pupil of Rashid Lala, Makhan La'l, year 1293 of Hijra (1876-7)'
As it is, the instrument can serve no sensible astronomical function. Numerous monumental and unwieldy instruments have been made in India in recent years. These are mainly based on fantasy and are clearly non-functional and made simply for gullible tourists (see King, In Synchrony with the Heavens, II, pp. 812-813, also 107-110). This piece is not one of these productions. It poses numerous problems, none of whi♔ch appear solvable at preಌsent.