Decorative Object Mystery: The Universal Ring Dial

have you ever seen an object that you thought was really amazing or beautiful and unique but never knew the name of it? Or did you ever see that object but call it by the wrong name for your entire life? That happened to me with this object, the universal ring dial. It was the symbol of my school growing up and we were incorrectly calling it an Astrolabe when it's really an equinoctial (or universal) ring dial! I think they are beautiful ancient objects and I've been seeing them quite often.

Suzanne Kasler used one on this writing table in the living room. I love the way that it's silhouetted against the window.

At school the ring dial was in the middle of a cobblestone courtyard in front of the main building and looked so charming. Hoerr Schaudt uses it in the same way at the top of these steps in a garden. Brilliant and a nice change from an ancient stone sculpture.

This dining room has many beautiful and interesting objects. The ring dial is in the corner but certainly isn't invisible. By Gerald Pomelroy via Verdigris Vie.

Here is a close up of the above picture. Gawwgeous.

David Easton says that this is his favorite decorative object. What an interesting display of antique objects.

I think these would be a fun object to put in a bookcase display or a tablescape. Anywhere you put it though, it's sure to start an interesting conversation. Now I want one!


Alicia B.