elpasha71:

Nocturnal

Dial consisting of a disk engraved on both sides. The recto bears markings for the zodiac signs, months, and days. On it rotates a circle divided into 29 parts and carrying two indexes; on this circle is a small rotating disk fitted with a gnomon, a compass, and an index with the French inscription - Ligne de foy - [line of trust]. On this side the instrument could be used either as a sundial or a nocturnal. The verso carries the hour lines and a small tilting gnomon. There is a suspension ring. The inscriptions in French and the word - Pign - engraved on the index suggest the instrument was made by a craftsman named Pineau, on whom we have no information. Probable provenance: Medici collections