AN ISLAMIC WOODEN ASTROLABE QUADRANT
Possibly North Africa or al-Andalus, Southern Spain, dated 1289AH (1872 - 73AD)

Of typical shape with a curved edge and two square sides, made of wood, engraved on one side with an astrolabic grid and scale, inscribed with Arabic numerals, featuring clear and precise angular divisions, marked at regular intervals from 5° to 65°, at the top next to the scale an inscription in Arabic reading the date 1289AH and an auspicious saying referring to the Hajj (the pilgrimage to Mecca), one of the five pillars of Islam, the grid-less reverse with unmarked concentric circles.

16.5cm x 17cm

This wooden quadrant, dated to 1289AH (approximately 1872-1873AD), is an excellent example of utilitarian Islamic scientific instruments, likely originating from the MENA region. It is made of wood, possibly cedar or olive, both prevalent in North Africa and the southern regions of Spain and traditionally used for items that required durability and detailed carving. The quadrant was traditionally used in astronomy and navigation to measure the angles of celestial bodies and calculate time, a key instrument for Islamic scholars and navigators. The markings on the present example suggest its use for specific astronomical calculations, particularly for determining altitude and direction in relation to the horizon.