E5568-2

Astrolabe: mounted reverse Long Caption: Despite the fact that this astrolabe has come to us without date or signature, it is possible to associate it with a group of astrolabes made in Lyon around 1550. The fluid strapwork of the rete is reminiscent of a rete pattern by Jean Naze found on an astrolabe dated 1553. The inclusion of star magnitudes and astrological symbols behind the star name and the exclusive use of stamps to mark the astrolabe are also traits in line with other instruments from Lyon. Star positions are indicated with flame-shaped pointers that seem to spring from the middle of the strap (for similar decorative detail, see AST0571, which is also a Lyon astrolabe). The high quality implies that whoever made this instrument was a trained and skilled instrument maker. His identity cannot yet be ascertained, but it could well have been a clockmaker who also made other instruments on the side, as was the common practice in Lyon. Credit line: © National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London, Robert Schumann collection Object: AST0534 Artist: unknown Date: circa 1560 Medium: gilt-brass Size: diameter: 218 mm Click here to buy a bespoke print of this image.