Universal equinoctial ring dial for all latitudes. Standard dial (see related terms) except for the following details:-

There are two latitude scales in opposite quadrants of the obverse side of the meridian ring, divided clockwise [0°]-90°. The remainder of the obverse side is filled with a table of latitudes that continues on the reverse side of the equinoctial ring. On the obverse side, as well as the inner rim, is an hour scale. There is a date scale and a zodiac scale and the equinoxes are marked at 21 March and 22 September. Acanthus patterns decorate the equatorial ring stops, the bridge ends and the supports.

This is by far the largest of the French universal equinoctial ring dials. It is comparable with the large English pieces produced in the middle of the 18th century. The table of latitudes includes some far-flung cities - Smyrna (Izmir), Lirna, Jerusalem and Peking (Beijing). Canada, Malta and Siam (Thailand) are listed as if they were cities, but the inclusion of whole countries in lists of latitudes is not unusual on sundials (see AST0348). The dial is signed 'N BION A PARIS' on the obverse side of the meridian ring.

For more information regarding this dial please refer to the OUP & NMM catalogue, 'Sundials at Greenwich'.