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Few remnants of the ancient world have survived due to their decorative charm alone, yet sundials continue to reign supreme among landscaping enthusiasts across the globe.
But what exactly is a sundial? Otherwise referred to as a shadow clock, a sundial was how ancient civilisations determined the time of day. The horological device consists of a flat plate and a gnomon, and it is the position or length of the gnomon’s shadow which indicates the hour of the day. As the sun changes position in the sky throughout the course of a day, so too does the shadow it casts on an unmoving object.
Nowadays, we have automated clocks to tell the time for us. But what makes sundials so special? Wouldn’t any old rod placed in the ground do the trick?
For a sundial to be accurate, it must have been designed for the correct geographical latitude, while the gnomon should be parallel to the Earth’s rotational axis. After all, it is the way in which the Earth rotates on its axis which makes the sun appear to move across the sky. The gnomon must then be aligned with True North, and its height (angle with the horizontal plate) should equal latitude.
If you were to build a sundial from scratch, you would then create markings on the horizontal based on how the gnomon’s shadow is cast at varying points in the day. In many locations, this results in markings which look closer together, or sometimes further away from one another, than numbers on a traditional clock.
The world’s oldest sundial was excavated from the Valley of Kings in Egypt and is estimated to have been in operation in approximately 1500 BC. Similarly, a 2022 study by Professor of Archaeology at Bournemouth University, Timothy Darvill, postulates that Stonehenge served as a solar calendar.
There’s something inherently magical about having a sundial perfectly placed in the centre of a curated garden. Evoking Alice In Wonderland charm while celebrating the ancient first steps towards the measurement of time as we know and understand it today, a sundial is a must-have garden accessory for history buffs and fantasy lovers – after all, science often feels a lot like magic.
Keep scrolling for the best sundials for ancient and elegant garden décor.
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Cast iron is a go-to material for outdoor décor due to its hardy and weatherproof nature. This elegant yet strong option is perched atop a half-globe and boasts an arrowhead gnomon which pierces through a hollow timekeeping sphere.
Sundials are often used as commemorative or anniversary gifts due to the fact that they symbolise the passage of time. Delicate and sophisticated, this engravable polished brass sundial can be personalised with up to 30 characters. According to Border Sundials, this sundial will be able to catch shadows on even the dullest of autumn days.
An ode to bygone eras, this rather Roman-looking marble sundial plinth looks pristine out of the box, but will look even better once exposed to the elements. We can already picture the sublime vintage charm that this piece will evoke when covered in moss and vines.
Available in a variety of finishes, this personalised sundial from The Metal Foundry is crafted from solid cast brass and lacquered to preserve the immaculate finish. Whether placed on the ground or atop a stone plinth, this beautiful piece is sure to elevate your garden décor.
This Venetian-style sundial looks as though it’s been plucked from the gardens of Pemberley. Crafted from stone and brass, the entire sculpture measures approximately 67cm in height and 51cm in diameter. The dial itself is 19cm in diameter.
A slate sundial is the perfect understated yet attractive ornament to adorn your minimalist garden. Tend to your plants without ever checking your smartphone or watch, and work by the light of day just like our ancient ancestors would have done.
Cast Iron Fish Pan This robust Roman sundial will naturally weather over time to produce an inimitable heritage piece which will last for years to come. Choose between a range of cast stone finishes to suit your personal style.