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Moving Shadows, Moving Sun. Early Modem Sundials Restaging Miracles.
Early sundials visually interpreted moving shadows, not just for timekeeping but also to symbolize ephemerality and planetary motion. Some sundials, like crucifix and Ahaz dials, recreated astronomical miracles on a terrestrial scale.
Area of Science:
- History of Science
- Instrumental Science
- Cultural History
Background:
- Sundials function by observing moving shadows or light spots, regardless of geo- or heliocentric models.
- The shadow cast by sundials historically served multiple purposes beyond mere time indication.
Observation:
- This article investigates the diverse visual interpretations of moving shadows and light spots on early modern sundials.
- Sundials employ inscriptions, integrated designs (e.g., cruciform dials), and manipulation of shadow paths (e.g., Horologium Ahaz) to represent celestial phenomena.
Findings:
- Crucifix and Ahaz dials not only reference astronomical miracles but actively restage them.
- The Horologium Ahaz, while not explaining the biblical miracle of a backward-moving shadow, enabled its terrestrial recreation.
Implications:
- Early modern sundials served as sophisticated instruments for visualizing and reenacting astronomical events.
- The design and function of sundials reveal a complex interplay between scientific observation, religious narrative, and symbolic representation.
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