Description:

An Antique French Silver Sundial and Compass, Michael Butterfield
Paris, circa 1700, the early scientific instrument with elongated octagonal shape, having an adjustable bird gnomon and engraved with European cities to include their latitude. Signed Butterfield Paris just above the compass. 1.12 troy ounces.
Note: Michael Butterfield (1635-1724), a British clockmaker prominent in Paris during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Butterfield was primarily known for crafting sundials for Grand Tour travelers, which allowed them to ascertain the local time in various towns. In 1677, he established a shop specializing in precision instruments in Saint Germain. His sundials quickly gained popularity, particularly his small traveling sundial, which featured a compass. Butterfield served at the Royal Court and was appointed as an engineer by King Louis XIV.

  • Dimensions: 2 1/2 x 2 5/8 inches
  • Condition: The piece retains the bottom half of the fitted case. The glass crystal on the compass having a crack. Unpolished.

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December 6, 2025 10:00 AM CST
St. Louis, MO, US

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