Shepherds Stick Sundial. Also known as a Pillar Dial, this is one of the earliest and most widespread forms of sundial. To use, the folding gnomon is swung around to the correct position for the time of year (the months are indicated by letters around the base). The sundial is then suspended so that it hangs vertically. The shadow of the gnomon then falls straight down and ends somewhere between the hour lines. Each line represents either an hour of the morning or afternoon, as it works by plotting the rise of the sun till noon and its subsequent fall. This type of sundial is specific to a particular latitude, and this one is set for a latitude of 52 degrees. Originally carved in ivory, bone or wood, this example is cast in resin with pewter fittings. With instructions. height 13cm. Price £17.50.