Armillary sphere

Armillary sphere. Four legged stand on cross base of wood. Painted yellow and red with floral decoration. Horizon ring marked with eight winds, 32 points of compass, months of year and zodiac names and signs in French. Inside the primary sphere, there are two movable arcs of brass connected to an axis fixed at the North ecliptic pole of the primary sphere. These arcs represent the orbs of the Sun and the Moon. The larger arc carries a disc with the symbol of the Moon. In the centre, there is a small terrestrial globe. On the terrestrial sphere, Australia and New Zealand are drawn according to the Dutch discoveries and there is a hypothetical east coast of Australia. Other details on the cartography cannot be deciphered, due to the dark colours. For further information about the cartography and construction of this armillary sphere please refer to the related publication, Globes at Greenwich.

Object Details

ID: AST0622
Collection: Astronomical and navigational instruments
Type: Armillary sphere
Display location: Not on display
Creator: Hardy, Jacques
Date made: circa 1770-1779
Credit: National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London, Caird Collection
Measurements: Overall: 533 x 475 x 475 mm
Parts: Armillary sphere