Large Solid Brass
Hand Engraved Astrolabe
$215
The Large Solid Brass Hand Engraved Astrolabe is a rare and beautiful heavy solid brass antique
reproduction.
The Astrolabe originated in ancient Greece circa 225 BC and during the 8th and 9th centuries it was introduced into the Islamic world.
As an ancient astronomical mechanical computer, the Astrolabe was used
to solve problems such as determining the time of day or night,
location of celestial objects, and time of sunrise and sunset.
This Astrolabe contains a Rete (Latin for net), which is the front cut away rotatable disk.
Several of the brightest stars are represented by pointers of the Rete.
The 12 signs of the zodiac divide the ecliptic circle on the Rete.
Beneath the Rete are five brass plates engraved with altitude and azimuth circles for various
latitudes.
For proper use, select the disk most closely matched to your latitude.
The Mater (Latin for mother) is on the back of the Astrolabe and is the holder of the disks and the Rete.
The perimeter of the Mater is marked 24 hours with noon at the top and
midnight at the bottom.
The rotating pointer, also known as an Alidade, is located on top of the Mater.
Several scales are engraved on the back of the Astrolabe for use in determining the longitude of the Sun for any date,
and a shadow square that can be 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 heavy
7 1/4 pounds (3.3 kg).
The Astrolabe markings are meticulously hand engraved and there are
slight variations 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 is available for only $215.
We also carry smaller versions of this astrolabe and a Celestial Armillary Globe.
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