Astrolabe Catalogue

 

Front of astrolabe without rete or plates. Click to enlarge
Date 14th century
Place Sicily (?)
Material Brass
Inventory no. 50769
Acquisition Presented by J. A. Billmeir in 1957

Throne

The throne is of the three-lobed type . The throne is attached with a integrated base. Neither side of the throne is decorated.

Ring

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

Shackle

Shackle of the omega type (i.e. Ω-shaped shackle). A very small teardrop extends down from the tab.

Mater

The mater and limb are of two pieces, soldered and riveted construction. . Scales on the limb:
Type Range & Units Numbered Geometry Location
Degree 0 - 360 Degrees Every 5 degrees Circular, concentric outer
Equal hours N/A Times of day Not numbered hours Circular, concentric edge

Womb


The womb is engraved with various circles and lines.

Circles

Type Labelled Style Notes
Equator Plain line.
Tropic of Cancer Plain line.
Tropic of Capricorn Plain line.

Lines

Type Labelled Description
Meridian line
Horizon rectus
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