Armillary Sphere

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Object Details

maker

Vopel, Caspar

Description

This small instrument shows the relative positions of the equator, ecliptic, and other important astronomical circles. At the center, presumably representing the earth, is a small ivory ball. The “CASPAR VOPEL ARTE” inscription on the Tropic of Cancer refers to Caspar Vopel (1511-1561) of Cologne who taught mathematics and made mathematical instruments.

Location

Currently not on view

date made

ca 1550

ID Number

PH.327302

catalog number

327302

accession number

272528

Object Name

armillary sphere

Physical Description

brass (overall material)

Measurements

overall: 26.5 cm x 13 cm; 10 7/16 in x 5 1/8 in

overall: 10 in x 5 1/4 in; 25.4 cm x 13.335 cm

See more items in

Medicine and Science: Physical Sciences

Astronomy

Trigonometry

Measuring & Mapping

Spherical Trigonometry

Data Source

National Museum of American History

Subject