Two decorative Qajar brass astrolabes, Persia, late 19th/early 20th century

both of characteristic form, the larger engraved with split-palmettes and foliate designs to polylobed throne, engraved to reverse with a spurious date, containing five plates, foliated rete, replacement pin and alidade, on a suspension loop; the smaller also with engraved foliate decorations to throne, containing three plates, foliated rete, pin and alidade

Christie's, Paris, 30 September 2003, lots 247 and 272.
The larger, Hotel Drouot Maurice Rheims, 15 November 1955, lot 244.

The larger: Le Cabinet de l’Amateur- Orangerie des Tuileries, February–April 1956, cat. no.289.

Both in generally good condition, probably replacement alidades and hooks to attach the alidade, the hooks for hanging and threads probably also later, some discoloration to metal and oxidisation, as viewed.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

inscriptions

The larger engraved to throne: Qur’an, chapter II (al-Baqarah), part of verse 255; with spurious date: 1097 AH/1685 AD.