Miniature Easter Astrolabe - H95

The original item after which this fine replica is created, was made by the famous astrolabist Diya al-Din bin Muhammad Qaim in Lahore, Pakistan in 1647, during the Mughal period. The original can be viewed on display at the Museum of Islamic Arts in Doha. Diya al-Din came from a prominent family of instrument makers, which was started by his great grandfather Ilah-Dad, who was court astronomer to the Emperor Humayun. The instrument is set for latitude 22º (Mecca). Astrolabes hold a special place in the history of Islamic peoples, with one of its main uses being to determine prayer time and the direction of Mecca towards which they would turn to pray. The Museum of Islamic Arts in Doha has a number of exquisite astrolabes in its collection, highlighting the importance of these instruments for the Islamic world. Made in Spain Dimensions: 130mm in height, 45mm in diameter, 5mm thick Material: Brass and wood