The Lainshaw Sundial, Hensol House

Later 17th century. Large and complex dial of lectern type,

bearing the initials and shield of Sir Alexander Cunninghame

of Lainshaw and Dame Margaret Stewart and probably dating

from their marriage in 1673. Multi-face sandstone head with

many dials, some hollowed, some heart-shaped; lead gnomons

replaced in 1980's.

The pedestal is much damaged, the dial having fallen into

disrepair at Cunninghame's Lainshaw estate in Ayrshire, in

the 19th century it was brought to Hensol and re-erected. The

pedestal was a square plan baluster shape with bulbous fluted

base and a now truncated obelisk-shaped shaft bearing the

shields and initials. The plinth and foot of the pedestal are

missing. When complete the pedestal must have closely

resembled that at Ladyland House, Ayrshire, which has an

almost identical sundial dated 1674.