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A collection of 18th and 19th century Arabic astrolabes and quadrant

Offered by: Mayfair Gallery

Description
A collection of 18th and 19th century Arabic astrolabes and quadrant
Persian, 18th/19th Century
Largest: Height 23cm, width 13cm, depth 3cm
Smallest: Height 6.5cm, width 4.5cm, depth 1.5cm

This excellent set of antique astronomical instruments is a selection of five Persian brass astrolabes and a quadrant, made during the eighteenth and nineteenth century. These pieces, originally a Hellenistic invention, were made in order to solve complex astronomical problems, and give the bearer effectively a hand-held map of the universe. Instruments such as these are keenly associated with the Islamic Golden age of scientific advancement and discovery, an age in which they became particular popular. Their use extended into later centuries, during which they became increasingly refined, as shown here.

The astrolabes consist of a mater, a base-plate or disc, which is overlaid with various tympans, flat-plates. The quadrant is a similar device, effectively an astrolabe in condensed, rectangular form. These pieces are all superbly engraved and carved with a variety of measurements, maps, and decorative additions, in the form of Arabic inscriptions, and delightful animal depictions and floral motifs.

More Information

Period:	18th Century
Materials:	Brass.
Creation Date:	18th/19th Century
Styles / Movements:	Persian, Traditional
Dealer Reference #:	15824
Incollect Reference #:	742779

Dimensions

W.	5.12 in;	H.	9.06 in;	D.	1.18 in;
W.	13 cm;	H.	23 cm;	D.	3 cm;

Message from Seller:

Mayfair Gallery is a leading gallery in the field of art and antiques, holding a large collection of unique pieces for sale. The breadth of the gallery’s collection is wide, and includes items from a range of periods, styles and geographical origins, as well as works by famous artists and craftsmen. The main focus of the gallery’s collection is, however, on items produced during the 19th and early 20th century.