Navicula de Venetiis

Private replica of a sundial often referred to in literature as the "Ship of Venice" (Navicula de Venetiis), which was already in use before 1400. This travel sundial, which was originally much smaller and more manageable, was named so because of its shape, which resembles a medieval sailing ship with a mast and raised bow and stern. The original sundials are usually made of solid brass, ivory or similar. They can be used anywhere regardless of latitude and are basically easy to use. The earliest surviving instrument was made around 1450. However, there are also drawings, descriptions and construction instructions in manuscripts from before 1400. The present replica consists of two brass discs each for the ship's hull and mast, which are mounted on correspondingly shaped wooden discs. The brass discs contain the scales and dials. A sliding cord pendulum is mounted on the mast. The “mast” is also movable. The instrument is not only suitable for time, but also for. B. for height measurement, for example of towers, etc. buildings.