Museo Galileo
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Astronomical compendium
    • Setting:
      Room II
    • Maker:
      unknown
    • Place:
      German
    • Date:
      ca. 1600
    • Materials:
      silvered and gilt brass
    • Dimensions:
      closed: 63x49 mm
    • Inventory:
      2481
    • Astronomical compendium (Inv. 2481)

This astronomical compendium, in the shape of a Missal, carries the coat of arms of the Company of Jesus ("IHS"). The outer face of the lid bears a lunar dial showing the phases of the moon; the inner face is engraved with the hour lines. Inside, there is a tilting gnomon mounted on a compass (now missing), that ensured the instrument's correct orientation and allowed its use as a dial. The back of the book displays the planetary hours.