Erasmus Habermel (circa 1550-1609) was the most productive scientific instrument maker of the Renaissance. Around 150 of his instruments have been recorded and they are all characterised by beautiful and elegant engraving and elaborate decoration. However astrolabes were not his speciality - he is only known to have made nine. This astrolabe, signed 'Erasmus Habermel fe', is almost identical to one in the Museum of the History of Science in Oxford (inventory no. 38097), albeit reduced in size.

The throne comprises two elongated S-shaped scrolls surmounted by lion masks either side of a centrally-positioned compass. On top of the compass is a shackle that holds a suspension ring. This whole arrangement is set on a curved bar, which is attached to the mater by means of four round-headed screws. The inside of the mater is fully engraved with various scales, wind names, and an elaborate windrose in the centre. There is one plate with a stereographic projection on either side: for latitudes 48º and 50º respectively. Inscribed on each side is a list of places for the corresponding latitude. The rete has 42 stars indicated by flame-shaped pointers. On the back of the instrument are concentric scales for degrees, the zodiac and the civil calendar. The area between the calendar scale and the month names is engraved with names of saints and events from the Christian calendar. The remaining surface on the back is divided between a table for converting equal hours into unequal ones in the upper half and a shadow square in the lower half.