Sundials are the oldest known form of timekeeping, and have been in use for thousands of years. As the sun moves from east to west, the light strikes a long central projection called a gnomon and projects a shadow against the relevant position on a clock face. They were used by the Ancient Greeks, the Egyptians and the Romans and are still in use today because they are not only beautiful but useful – there’s even a British Sundial Society if you want to find out more.
The two sundials in the Italian Terrace collection are wall plaques designed to hang on a south facing wall. Set the brass gnomon to 12 o’clock, and you will get a result that’s broadly accurate – although we don’t recommend that you use it to catch a flight! These sundials are decorative and visually appealing, and also have a functional purpose.
It is not always practical to wear a watch when you are gardening, and our sundials will help you keep an eye on the time in a low-pressure, ‘long sunny hours in the garden’ kind of way. Ideal for adding interest and elegance to a plain wall, our sundials also make the perfect gift for anyone who likes to spend time outside.
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