Large Solid Brass
Hand Engraved Astrolabe
$215
This is a rare and beautiful heavy solid brass antique
reproduction of an Astrolabe.
The Astrolabe is an ancient astronomical mechanical computer used
to solve problems such as determining the time of day or night,
location of celestial objects, and time of sunrise and sunset.
The Astrolabe's origin is from ancient Greece, circa 225 BC.
It was introduced into the Islamic world during the 8th and 9th centuries.
The Astrolabe consists of a front cut away rotatable disk called
the Rete (Latin for net).
The Rete has pointers that represent several of the brightest stars.
The ecliptic circle on the Rete is divided into the 12 signs of
the zodiac.
Under the Rete are five brass plates that are
engraved with altitude and azimuth circles for different
latitudes.
In use, one would use the disk that most closely matched the
observer's latitude.
The back and the holder of the disks and the Rete is called the
Mater (Latin for mother) and a rotating pointer called an Alidade.
The perimeter of the Mater is marked 24 hours with noon at top and
midnight at the bottom.
The back of the Astrolabe is engraved with several scales for
determining the longitude of the Sun for any date, and a shadow
square used to solve trigonometric problems.
This large brass Astrolabe antique reproduction measures 9 3/8 inches (23.8
cm) in diameter, 14 3/8 inches (36.5 cm) tall, and weighs a hefty
7 1/4 pounds (3.3 kg).
The markings are meticulously engraved by hand and there are
subtle differences between any two instruments.
All components of the Astrolabe are solid brass with an antique
patina finish which will not show fingerprints.
This Astrolabe will make a beautiful wall hanging or an excellent
addition to any fine instrument collection.
The large hand engraved brass Astrolabe sells for only $215.
We also offer smaller versions of this astrolabe and a Celestial Armillary Globe.
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