Silver sundial by Hunfrey Cole
1568-1590
Silver altitude sundial made and signed by Humfray Cole, London, 1568-1590. It was made for use in latitude 51°30 secs, in which London is located, Complete with original leather carry case.
Humfrey Cole (active 1568-1590) was one of the earliest British-born instrument makers in London. He moved to the city from the north of England and probably learned his skills from European craftsmen who had recently moved to London. The original owner of the silver sundial is unknown, but would have been a wealthy individual such as an aristocrat or merchant.