Mounted on a 9" marble base is a small brass cannon, and above that a magnifying glass. The positioning and focal length of the lens would be designed to light the cannon's fuse. The placement of the sundial suggests that the device was used to mark the arrival of the noon hour (on sunny days).
This intricate device was custom-made for someone living at a latitude of 59 degrees, 55 minutes, 20 seconds. My guess would be that the recipient lived somewhere in St. Petersburg, but other locations are possible.
http://www.littlegun.be/curios%20et%20antiquites/a%20canon%20solaire%20gb.htm.
Addendum: Some additional searching has revealed that devices such as these were known as "sundial cannons" or "noon cannons." The best description/photos I've found is at this pdf by the British Sundial Society.
This intricate device was custom-made for someone living at a latitude of 59 degrees, 55 minutes, 20 seconds. My guess would be that the recipient lived somewhere in St. Petersburg, but other locations are possible.
http://www.littlegun.be/curios%20et%20antiquites/a%20canon%20solaire%20gb.htm.
Addendum: Some additional searching has revealed that devices such as these were known as "sundial cannons" or "noon cannons." The best description/photos I've found is at this pdf by the British Sundial Society.
I went to Germany earlier this year and in Ludwigsburg I went to a castle that had one of these. It was used to tell the town when it was lunch time. Was loud enough to be heard for miles.
Abusive comment hidden.
(Show it anyway.)
Sorry wasn't clear, this was used back in the day by King Ludwig. Not used now but they did have a model out in the courtyard. Was pretty cool.
Abusive comment hidden.
(Show it anyway.)
Just think of the uses for this device. In fact it could have been used for timed bombings. Great find. :p
Abusive comment hidden.
(Show it anyway.)
I am right there with you.I am not sure someone else refer me to your website
Abusive comment hidden.
(Show it anyway.)