Standing Sand Pendulum made of Stainless Steel (Height 55 cm)

The sand pendulum consists of a pointy stainless steel top hanging from a tripod. When set in motion the pendulum will draw fine traces through a layer of quartz sand in a wooden plate below the tripod. These lines in the sand form repetitive patterns of mathematical beauty which overlap each other from the edge towards the center as the pendulum gradually slows itself down. At the end of every turn the pendulum rests in the exact middle.

French physicist Léon Foucault made the earth's rotation plausible to laity in 1851. And even though this sand pendulum is not large enough to make a scientific demonstration of the Coriolis power it remains a mesmerizing contemplative experience for the beholder.

For the best impression of the sand pendulum you can place a small spotlight next to the sand plate. It will highlight the impressive pattern with the contrast of light and shadow.

This sand pendulum comes from the collection of the traditional Swiss manufacturer Naef Spiele and meets their highest demands on the quality of the material and the workmanship. The bowl as well as the frame are made of lacquered stainless steel, the pendulum including the tip is made of polished stainless steel.

The sand pendulum is delivered disassembled and requires no tools for assembly. Instructions are enclosed. The pendulum also comes with an additional blunt pendulum element which levels the sand to the correct height before the pointy pendulum is used.