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Planispheric Astrolabe

dated 1065 AH/1654–55 CE
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 453
Astrolabes of this size were not precise enough for astronomical observations, but served well for telling time, and astrologers could use them to determine the position of a planet relative to the different astrological houses. The intricate calligraphic faceplate of this example is typical of Safavid‑period astrolabes; it reads: "In the name of God, the Merciful, the Compassionate" (bismallah al‑Rahman al‑Rahim).

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Planispheric Astrolabe
  • Maker: Muhammad Zaman al-Munajjim al-Asturlabi (Iranian, active 1643–1689)
  • Date: dated 1065 AH/1654–55 CE
  • Geography: Attributed to Iran, Mashhad
  • Medium: Brass and steel; cast and hammered, pierced and engraved
  • Dimensions: H. 8 1/2 in. (21.6 cm)
    W. 6 3/4 in. (17.1 cm)
    D. 2 1/4 in. (5.7 cm)
  • Classification: Metal
  • Credit Line: Harris Brisbane Dick Fund, 1963
  • Object Number: 63.166a–j
  • Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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