Artificial black glass horizon – circa 1800
Stock Number: NM.6-08
€925
Country of manufacture
UK and Ireland
Description
The artificial horizon was designed for use when the natural horizon is not visible due to weather conditions or darkness. It is used in conjunction with a sextant. The angle of reflection of a celestial body on the mirror is equal to the angle of incidence.
The history of the artificial horizon dates back to the sixteenth century, but development really got underway in the eighteenth century. George Adams designed the mercury trough in 1738 to prevent the swinging of the mercury during the movement of a ship.
This early and particular example consists of a glass plate with a black background mounted in brass tray with three adjusting screw bolts to level the instrument. A wooden ‘brake’ is fitted behind the bolts to prevent unwanted twisting. The horizon is housed in a mahogany box with a hinged lid with hook and eye catchers. The bubble level glass is missing.
Catalog: NM.6-08
Date: ca.1800
D glass: 13.5 cm
HWL case7.5×17.3×17.3 cm
Signed: not signed
Origin: England
Condition: in good and working condition, wear consistent with age and use
For more instruments see archipel-img.com
Ask the Dealer
Dealer information
Archipel
Welcome to the catalogue of Archipel International Maritime Gallery, specialist in nautical antiques and collectables.
Archipel International Maritime Galery in the Netherlands, sets itself to maritime objects, globes and sea charts of before 1900. The managing director worked as officer with the mercantile marine and the Royal Navy. As curator he was connected to one of the University Museums in the Netherlands. As seaman and curator he has a lot of knowledge of naval history. The entire Archipel collection can be found at the site Archipel-img.com.
