Date | 18th century (?) |
Place | Persia |
Material | Brass |
Inventory no. | 52332 |
Acquisition | Purchased from Alain Brieux in 1969-70 |
The tools used by a mathematical or astronomical instrument maker included not only the familiar engraving, dividing, and metalworking tools but more specialized templates and 'sciagraphic' devices. These have seldom been preserved in private or museum collections.
This wooden dastūr or astrolabe template, with a brass blank for an astrolabe waiting in its recess, is part of an ensemble of instruments and tools which the Museum acquired in 1969. Of Persian origin, but of varying dates in the 18th and 19th centuries, they were evidently part of the equipment of someone who made astrolabes, sundials, and other related instruments. The other items in the group are: a brass blank for another type of instrument, such as a sundial or qibla indicator; a rectangular quadrant; a set square; a gnomon; and a large wooden quadrant.
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Mater
The mater and limb are of one-piece construction. The limb, as with the rest of this mater, is blank.. Scales on the limb: More information