The astrolabe, which was in a private collection for years, will be auctioned at Sotheby’s in London. Courtesy: Sotheby’s
A rare 17th century astrolabe, often described as a handheld astronomical “supercomputer,” is set to be auctioned in London later this month. The instrument, once part of the royal collection of Sawai Man Singh II, is notable for its size, craftsmanship, and historical significance, offering a glimpse into the scientific advancements of the Mughal era.
The piece will go under the hammer at Sotheby’s, where it is expected to draw interest from collectors and institutions alike. Measuring nearly 30 centimeters in diameter and weighing over 8 kilograms, it is significantly larger than typical astrolabes of its time, as reported by BBC News.
Astrolabes were widely used across the ancient and medieval world to perform a range of calculations related to astronomy and navigation. They could determine the time of day, map the positions of stars, calculate distances, and even assist in predicting celestial events. Scholars often compare their versatility to modern multi function devices due to the range of tasks they could perform.
This particular astrolabe was crafted in Lahore during the early 17th century by two brothers, Qa’im Muhammad and Muhammad Muqim, who were part of a renowned family of instrument makers. It was commissioned by a Mughal nobleman and later became part of the Jaipur royal collection before passing into private ownership.
The instrument features detailed engravings, including the coordinates of 94 cities and dozens of star pointers labeled in both Persian and Sanskrit. Its design reflects a blend of scientific precision and artistic detail, characteristic of the Lahore School, which was considered one of the leading centers of astrolabe production at the time.
Experts note that the device represents a sophisticated understanding of astronomy, effectively projecting a three dimensional model of the universe onto a flat surface. Its precision allows for highly accurate measurements of celestial positions, demonstrating the advanced level of knowledge achieved during that period.
Astrolabes are metallic disks with multi-layered, interlocking components used to tell the time and map the stars, among other things. Courtesy: Sotheby’s
The astrolabe has never been publicly exhibited, adding to its rarity. Its condition and provenance are expected to contribute to strong bidding, with estimates placing its value between 1.5 million and 2.5 million pounds.
The auction highlights continued interest in historical scientific instruments, particularly those that combine technical innovation with cultural and artistic significance.