Antique Persian Astrolabe - Handmade of Brass UNUSUAL! Navigational, Celestial & Astrological Instrument Start Price USD 0.99 Current Price USD 260.00 Time Left - Bid Count 12 Buy It Now Price - Reserve Price - Start Time Friday, August 29, 2008 End Time Monday, September 08, 2008 Location San Francisco, California See more about 'Antique Persian Astrolabe - Handmade of Brass UNUSUAL!' Description This is an astrolabe, which is a very early navigational instrument. Typical uses included finding the time during the day or night, finding the time of a celestial event such as sunrise or sunset, and as a handy reference of celestial positions. Another principal use was for astrology. Astrolabes are known to have been used in the Arab world as early as 800 A.D., and their use and production there continued into the 19th Century. The astrolabe was inherently valuable in Islam because of its ability to determine the time of day and, therefore prayer times, and to find the direction to Mecca.   My mother acquired this astrolabe in Iran in the 1960s, and it was thought at that time to be quite old.  It is solid brass, and entirely handmade. Engravings show not only navigational symbols and measurements, but also the signs of the horoscope. The main body of the instrument (called the mater) shows the signs of the horoscope as well as the necessary navigational markings. Individual plates fit into the mater and are engraved for the local latitude. This astrolabe includes three plates engraved on both sides so that the instrument could be used in different latitudes. The plate being used is placed on top in the mater. Over the plate is fitted a disk (called a rete), cut away to show the plate (and markings) underneath it. The plates and the rete are held in place by a clock-type hand called a rule, which is held in place by a pin through the center of the instrument and rotates over the plate. The pin is held in place by a wedge shaped like the head of a horse. The back of the instrument is also engraved: it has the signs of the horoscope and scales for solving mathematical problems, finding the direction to Mecca or other astrological information.   It is truly a work of art and an exceptional piece of history! It would make a very special addition to a scientific, nautical or maritime collection. It is in great condition, with the lovely patina of age. Everything is original with the possible exception of the pin. It measures 5 7/8” wide by 7 ¾” tall (to top of hanging loop).   No returns allowed. All sales final. USA only please.On Aug-31-08 at 17:27:19 PDT, seller added the following information:PLEASE READ MESSAGES RELATING TO THIS ITEM. Place a Bid!