Hi Mario, >> Is there in the book a picture of that dial made by Lienhart Gresel? If yes, are you able to send me a scanned copy to compare with the Italian one?
Sorry, my book does not have an image of Gresel's sundial. I get the feeling from the book that he may not have made many. If the picture was in the book I would gladly have scanned it for you. >> There are similar sundials with Italian hours in the Nuremberg production? Many of the Nuremburg dials had Italian hours on them. Many were made strictly for use in Venice or were adjustable for use in northern Italy as well as in Nuremburg. Venice and Nurembirg were major trade partners. It seems like Nuremburg is where the earliest diptychs are found, but they were also made in Italy, France, and Flanders. The Ducher family (Nuremburg) was one of 6 families that made most of the Nuremburg dials. "Dials labeled with Italian hours and calibrated to Venice are especially prominent among those made by the Ducher family workshop in Nuremburg." (Ivory Diptych Sundials, pg. 15). Hans Ducher I could have been an apprentice in 1531. Hans Ducher I became a master in 1537 Hans Ducher II became a master in 1557 Hans Ducher III became a master in 1570 I have a couple of questions: Are you sure it is a Nuremburg dial? Are there any unusual or unknown marks on it? Some makers used their initials or a symbol that only their shop used. The Duchers used the initials HT and/or a 'crowned snake'. Is there any ornamentation or fancy designs on the borders? (It may be too young for that). You say that 2 of the dials aren't constructed correctly, how are they wrong? (just curious). If I can find more data I'll let you know. If you have any more questions, just ask! Another good book (which I don't have) is Penelope Gouks' "Ivory Sundials of Nuremburg". In there you will find more information about Gresel's sundial. Have a nice day! Chuck. [EMAIL PROTECTED]
