Sundials combine science and art to beautify your garden

A 19th-century Dutch copper and brass armillary sundial sold for $3,000 plus the buyer’s premium in October 2020 at Westport Auction. Image courtesy of Westport Auction and LiveAuctioneers.
A 19th-century Dutch copper and brass armillary sundial sold for $3,000 plus the buyer’s premium in October 2020. Image courtesy of Westport Auction and LiveAuctioneers.

NEW YORK — Centuries before watches and cell phones took over the task of keeping track of the time, people could roughly discern the hour by looking up at the sun. Alternately, they could look down to mark the sun’s passage across the sky, which could be tracked by where it cast its shadow on the ground. This fact gave rise to the sundial, a scientific instrument that lends itself to decorative beauty and lush garden settings.

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SFO Museum focuses on ‘Antique Scientific Instruments’

Geissler tube rotator [with modern tube], late 19th century. James W. Queen & Company, Philadelphia, brass, mahogany, lacquer, glass, resin, iron, wire. Courtesy of Mark McElyea. L2021.1301.004a–b

Geissler tube rotator [with modern tube], late 19th century. James W. Queen & Company, Philadelphia, brass, mahogany, lacquer, glass, resin, iron, wire. Courtesy of Mark McElyea. L2021.1301.004a–b
Geissler tube rotator [with modern tube], late 19th century. James W. Queen & Company, Philadelphia, brass, mahogany, lacquer, glass, resin, iron, wire. Courtesy of Mark McElyea. L2021.1301.004a–b
SAN FRANCISCO – Curiosity & Discovery: Antique Scientific Instruments explores the beauty and allure of the tools scientists have used to learn more about our world. The exhibition mounted by the SFO Museum will run through April 3, 2022.

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The art of the garden: ideas for exterior decorating

A monumental bronze Beaux Arts garden fountain sold for $32,000 plus the buyer’s premium in March 2021 at New Orleans Auction Galleries.
A monumental patinated bronze Beaux Arts garden fountain, standing 8ft tall, sold for $32,000 plus the buyer’s premium in March 2021 at New Orleans Auction Galleries.

NEW YORK — Antiques have never been solely for interior use. Avid gardeners have long incorporated antiques and artful objects into their gardens to create focal points and add character, history and texture. A large garden in suburbia isn’t necessary to pull off this look; even city or apartment dwellers can use antiques to create appealing gardens in small spaces.

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