Armillary Sphere

There are restrictions for re-using this image. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page .
International media Interoperability Framework
IIIF provides researchers rich metadata and media viewing options for comparison of works across cultural heritage collections. Visit the IIIF page to learn more.
View manifest View in Mirador Viewer
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.

Date Made: ca 1550

Maker: Vopel, Caspar

Location: Currently not on view

Subject: Astronomy

Subject:

See more items in: Medicine and Science: Physical Sciences, Astronomy, Trigonometry, Measuring & Mapping, Spherical Trigonometry

Exhibition:

Exhibition Location:

Data Source: National Museum of American History

Id Number: PH.327302Catalog Number: 327302Accession 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 inoverall: 10 in x 5 1/4 in; 25.4 cm x 13.335 cm

Metadata Usage: CC0

Guid: http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/ng49ca746aa-487f-704b-e053-15f76fa0b4fa

Record Id: nmah_1184188

Our collection database is a work in progress. We may update this record based on further research and review. Learn more about our approach to sharing our collection online.

If you would like to know how you can use content on this page, see the Smithsonian's Terms of Use. If you need to request an image for publication or other use, please visit Rights and Reproductions.