Astrolabe

Origin: Spain.

Provenance: Antiquus viejos inventos.

Period: 21th century.

Material: Bronze plated metal.

Size: 10cm d x 0.8cm, height 13cm.

Condition: New (replica).

Embark on a celestial journey with the astrolabe, a timeless instrument that navigates the realms of astronomy, mathematics, and history. This intricate device, born from the brilliance of ancient minds, allowed explorers, astronomers, and scholars to decipher the mysteries of the cosmos and chart their course through uncharted territories.

An astrolabe's beauty lies not only in its intricate brass gears and dials but also in its role as a bridge between Earth and sky. It measures celestial bodies, calculates angles, and aligns with the stars, enabling navigators to determine their latitude and time with astonishing precision.

The term "astrolabe" is etymologically derived from the Greek words "astron," meaning star, and "lambano," meaning to reach or seek. Thus, astrolabe can be understood as "seeker of stars." It can be considered the mathematical jewel of astronomy.

The invention of the astrolabe is attributed to Diogenes Laertius, although some scholars believe it was Ptolemy who invented it. After falling out of use, the astrolabe was once again employed by Arab astronomers. Caliph Al Mamun gathered them in the House of Wisdom in Baghdad in the first half of the 10th century. The oldest astrolabe in the world was crafted by Nastulus around the year 927 and is preserved in the National Museum of Kuwait.

The astrolabe reproduced by Antiquus is a replica of the one made by Gualterius Arsenius of Leuven in the late 16th century, and it is constructed from bronze-plated metal. It is mounted on a wooden base inscribed with "Astrolabio."

It belongs to the category of planispheric astrolabes, using a stereographic projection.

These types of astrolabes were the most common and often featured multiple plates with different latitudes, enabling their use in various locations.

It comes with a manual detailing its history and usage instructions, elegantly presented in a cardboard  with a stand.

Owning an astrolabe connects you to the inquisitive spirits of those who gazed upward, seeking answers to questions that spanned time and space. As you hold this instrument, you're not just holding a piece of history; you're holding a tool that ignited minds, guided journeys, and paved the way for the modern understanding of our cosmos.

Note:

Please be advised that the astrolabe is optimized for use at a latitude of 41.25'. This setting ensures its most accurate performance and alignment with celestial observations.