So-called First Rolling-Ball Clock
1596, Artist: Christoph Margraf
So-called First Rolling-Ball Clock
The Rolling-Ball Clock: Invented for Emperor Rudolf II
The court clockmaker Christoph Margraf invented the rolling-ball clockwork, which featured a new principle of timekeeping. A ball runs down a slope between two wires, sets a second ball in motion, and then is raised back to its initial position. A counting mechanism transfers the information to a clock face. The three such clocks that have been preserved are mounted in cases with reflecting mirrors and scenery.
Object data
Object Name
Rolling-Ball Clock
Culture
Prague
Dated
1596
Artist
Christoph Margraf (nachweisbar Prag 1595 - 1612)
Material
Wood, velvet, gilded copper alloy, glass, silver ore, painted parchment, iron
Dimensions
H. 40,3 cm, L. 28 cm, B. 23 cm
Signed
Cum gratia et Priuilegio Sac: Caes: Maiest: ad Quindecim Annorum Christof Margraf fecit et Inuent: 96
Image rights
Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien, Kunstkammer
Inv. No.
Kunstkammer, 845
Erste Kugellaufuhr
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