Decorative astrolabe
Date19th century
Maker
Persian
Label TextFor centuries, the astrolabe-a navigational, astronomical, chronological, religious, and geographical instrument-was the most important and popular scientific tool in the Middle East and Europe. Invented in the Hellenistic period (ca. 150 B.C.), this example dates to the 19th century and includes the markers for the equator and several constellations, laid over a celestial map. It was most likely decorative and not used for actual navigation or time-telling.
Object number2009.65.1
ProvenancePurchased in Iran by Jeff Strickler, Seattle, WA 1971-2009
Credit LineGift of Jeff Strickler
Dimensionsapproximately 4 x 3 in. (10.2 x 7.6 cm)
MediumBrass
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