A unique “instrument of intellect” created in Samarkand in the 18th century at the Center for Islamic Civilization!
Uzbekistan’s first auction house — Art Vernissage — donates a unique artifact to the Center for Islamic Civilization
During the international expert forum “The Legacy of the Great Past — the Basis of an Enlightened Future” held in Tashkent, the country’s first auction house, Art Vernissage, presented the Center for Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan with a rare 18th-century artifact a brass astrolabe created in Samarkand in 1711.
This 21-cm scientific instrument is equipped with interchangeable plates, allowing its use across different geographical latitudes. Thanks to this feature, the astrolabe was considered a multifunctional scientific device of its time.
For reference: in the Islamic world, the astrolabe was not merely an astronomical tool but a symbol that combined scientific progress, practical application, religious devotion, and artistic mastery. It served as a reliable guide not only for astronomers but also for travelers, sailors, and merchants.
Great scholars such as Al-Khwarizmi, Al-Fargani, and Al-Biruni described in detail the structure and use of the astrolabe in their works, further highlighting its prominent role in Islamic civilization.
“This perfect instrument, especially between the 15th and 18th centuries, was recognized as one of the most advanced devices in the world. We hope this astrolabe, now part of the Center’s exhibition, will reflect the profound knowledge and craftsmanship of Islamic scholars and leave a lasting impression on all visitors”, said Shavkat Sultanov, Director of the Art Vernissage auction house.
This donation has further enriched the Center’s exhibition and strengthened the country’s intellectual environment and cultural dialogue.
As a reminder: at the international forum held at the Center on September 26–27 this year, more than 100 experts scholars and researchers, heads of museums and libraries, and heritage specialists from over 20 countries took part. Representatives of prestigious institutions such as IRCICA, ICESCO, TURKSOY, the World Islamic League, Oxford University, the Russian Academy of Sciences, and Christie’s contributed with lectures and analyses.
The international community highly praised President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s initiatives to preserve the humanistic essence of Islam and to foster intercultural dialogue.
“Rossiyskaya Gazeta”: Center of Islamic Civilization fosters spiritual and intellectual awakening of New Uzbekistan
Federal newspaper “Rossiyskaya Gazeta” has published an analytical article titled “Third Renaissance: Center of Islamic Civilization Fosters the Spiritual and Intellectual Awakening of New Uzbekistan”, reports Dunyo IA.
In the publication, Center of Islamic Civilization, currently under development in Tashkent, is presented as a major cultural and educational platform integrating science, education, and modern digital technologies. The establishment of the complex, which spans approximately 10 hectares in Tashkent and will house the 7th-century Uthman Quran, is directly linked to the initiative of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev presented at the 72nd session of the UN General Assembly to promote the enlightened essence of Islam. Through the concept of the Third Renaissance and the heritage of great Eastern scholars, the article highlights the continuity of the country's scientific progress - from ancient discoveries to interactive exhibitions utilizing artificial intelligence, VR and AR technologies.
Publication also highlights the outcomes of the international media forum “Islamic Civilization: A New Perspective – New Discoveries”, held in Tashkent and Samarkand, where approximately 20 agreements were signed. These include decisions to establish the International Media Alliance, launch the “Voice of Civilization” competition and conduct initiatives to repatriate national artefacts from abroad, laying the foundation for the systemic promotion of the cultural heritage of Uzbekistan worldwide.
