German Ivory Carver

Do you think that you may own an ivory sundial by Hans Troschel the Elder? We authenticate, appraise, research and issue certificates of authenticity (COA) and provide consultations for all ivory pieces by Hans Troschel the Elder.

 

Portable Diptych Sundial, ca. 1598 (view 1)

Portable Diptych Sundial, ca 1598 (view 2)

Hans Troschler the Elder was a talented maker of ivory sundials in Nuremberg, Germany. The popularity of sundials and other time keeping instruments became increasingly important after the extensive production of mechanical clocks during the Renaissance. Sundials were needed to regulate and check clock time, which was still relatively inaccurate.

Diptych Dial Signed by Hans Troschel Dated 1586; Nuremberg Ivory and brass

On the above Diptych Dial both of the outer faces are engraved colored figures: on the upper leaf, St. Helena holding a cross in her right hand, and on the lower leaf, Constantine.

Troschel trained to be a sundial maker in Nuremberg, under Peter Isselburg. Troschel made classic Nuremberg style sundials, which were small, folding, easily portable and made of ivory or wood.

In addition to sundial making, Troschel worked on drawings and engravings depicting views of Nuremberg and studies of heads and figures. It is thought that Troschel's drawing and engraving abilities aided his work as an ivory turner. By 1624 Troschel moved to Rome, where he worked and lived until the end of his life.

Diptych Dial Signed by Hans Troschel Circa 1600; Nuremberg Ivory and brass

On the above Diptych Dial, the vignette on the inner side of the upper leaf represents a putto with his arm resting on a skull, as a reminder of death, and a sandglass in his right hand. Below the putto, the inscription reads 'HORA FVGIT MORS VENIT' ('time runs away, death comes').

The other vignette, at the bottom of the inner side of the lower leaf depicts a pelican feeding her young. This symbolizes redemption. The outer part of the lower leaf is adorned with n unidentified coat of arms. This Diptych dial belongs to the Oxford Museum of Science.

Hans Troschel is one of the most recognized sundial makers, of the Nuremberg workshop in Germany. Troschel's sundials are now in major museum collections across Europe and the United States. Do you think you own an ivory sundial by Hans Troschel? Contact us. We are the Ivory experts.

 

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