Exhibition: The Astrolabe, East and West


The stars

The rete of the astrolabe is a map of the heavens and the names of stars are generally given close to the pointers indicating their positions. In this example there are two very graphic representations: towards the bottom is the 'Dog-Star' (Sirius) and at the top is the head of the constellation the Dragon. Less obvious but equally striking is the bird representing Vega just above the centre.
Closeup of Astrolabe, English, c.1370 (Inv. 49359) Full image of Astrolabe, English, c.1370 (Inv. 49359)
Astrolabe, English, c.1370 (Inv. 49359)
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