Astrolabe Catalogue

 

Front of astrolabe without rete or plates. Click to enlarge
Date 1733/4 (A.H. 1146)
Maker Muḥammad ibn Aḥmad al-Baṭṭuṭī
Place Morocco
Material Brass
Inventory no. 51459
Acquisition Presented by J. A. Billmeir in 1957

Throne

The throne is of the moorish arch type . The throne is attached with a integrated base. The front is undecorated. The back bears the maker's inscription.. Markings:
Content Translation Notes Type
الحمد لله وحده صنعه محمد بن أحمد البطوطي سنة ١١٤٦ Praise be to God alone. Made by Muḥammad ibn Aḥmad al-Baṭṭūṭī in the year 1146 (AH). Maker's signature


Ring

The ring is of the simple, round cross-section type (i.e. simple plain ring made from a round rod or piece of metal).

Shackle

Shackle of the rotating pin type (i.e. pin with a 'ball-joint' on the end). The pin attaches to a decorative square bracket..

Mater

The mater and limb are of two pieces, soldered and riveted construction. The notch for holding the tympans in place is located at the throne.. Scales on the limb:
Type Range & Units Numbered Geometry Location
Degree 0 - 360 Degrees of arc Every 5 degrees Circular, concentric None

Womb


Contains a perpetual calendar and solar-cycle..
The womb contains 2 scales of the following types:
Type Range & Units Numbered Geometry Location
Solar cycle N/A   Circular, concentric None
Calendar, perpetual N/A   Circular, concentric None
MHS Home | Contact Us | ©2006 Museum of the History of Science