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Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi/ Photo: Thierry Ollivier

Astrolabe

1726-1727

Muhammad ibn Ahmad Al-Battûtî


A flat projection of the night sky, an astrolabe was used to help calculate the positions of the stars and to determine the exact time during the day. Mentioned by several ancient Greek authors, this measuring and navigational instrument was used up to the 18th century, when it was replaced by more sophisticated optical instruments. Combining the scientific knowledge of the East and West, this finely engraved astrolabe stands out due to its size, exceptional for this type of artefact.

Artwork Details

Artist: Muhammad ibn Ahmad Al-Battûtî
Title: Astrolabe
Geography: Meknès (?), Morocco (?), North Africa
Date: 1726-1727

Medium: cast and engraved brass with silver studs

Classification: scientific instrument (measuring, calculating, monitor etc.)
Dimensions: 24.2 x 22 x 0.7 cm
Inventory number: LAD 2009.027
Contact for images : [email protected]
Permalink : www.louvreabudhabi.ae/fr/Explore/Highlights-of-the-collection/astrolabe

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