Epact Scientific Instruments of Medieval and Renaissance Europe

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Astrolabe
Unsigned
circa 1500; Italian
Brass; 95 mm in diameter

This instrument has been classified as an astrolabe, but it is primarily an astrological instrument used for finding the position of planets and other celestial bodies, especially in relation to the traditional astrological houses, rather than an observational device.

It is unusual in a number of respects, including the pattern of the rete, but more especially in the series of eight concentric rotating volvelles on the back.

Museum of the History of Science, Oxford
Inventory number 45127

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