Presentation of the gift. Photo: Center for Islamic Civilization press service
At the recent international expert forum “Heritage of the Great Past — Foundation of an Enlightened Future,” Uzbekistan’s first auction house, Art Vernissage, presented a unique artifact to the Center for Islamic Civilization in Tashkent: an 18th-century brass astrolabe created in Samarkand, the Center’s press service reported.
The 21-centimeter instrument is fitted with interchangeable plates, allowing it to be used in different latitudes, including by sailors. Thanks to this versatility, the astrolabe was considered a multipurpose scientific tool of its time.
“This device, remarkable for its era, was recognized worldwide as one of the most advanced instruments. We hope that the astrolabe, now part of the Center’s collection, will impress visitors by showcasing the deep knowledge and craftsmanship of scholars of the Islamic world,” said Shavkat Sultonov, director of Art Vernissage.
The forum “Heritage of the Great Past — Foundation of an Enlightened Future” was held at the initiative of Shavkat Mirziyoyev. It brought together more than 200 scholars and experts from over 20 countries, including representatives of TURKSOY, ISESCO, IRCICA, and Al-Furqan.
ℹ️ The Center for Islamic Civilization, located next to the Hazrati Imam complex in Tashkent, was built in the style of medieval architecture with four 34-meter portals and a central dome rising 65 meters. The complex includes a Quran hall, a 460-seat conference hall, and a museum whose exhibitions cover the history of Uzbekistan from pre-Islamic times to the present. The Center is designed to serve as a hub for studying the heritage of the past in collaboration with the International Islamic Academy of Uzbekistan and educational centers worldwide.
