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.
Uzbek Miniature Art Exhibition “From Bukhara to the Arabian Peninsula” opens in Riyadh
A cultural evening and the opening of the exhibition “The Art of Miniature: From Bukhara to the Arabian Peninsula. Stories Along the Ways to the Shrines”, dedicated to the 35th Anniversary of the Independence of Uzbekistan, took place in the capital of Saudi Arabia, reports Dunyo IA.
Event was organized by the Embassy of Uzbekistan. It was attended by representatives of the diplomatic corps, government agencies, media, figures of culture and art, artists, and guests.
Exhibition features 35 works by Uzbek masters, introducing visitors to the history, artistic characteristics and traditions of miniature painting of Uzbekistan.
Ambassador of Uzbekistan, Nodirjon Turgunov, noted the role of culture in strengthening mutual understanding between peoples and developing Uzbek-Saudi humanitarian ties.
Head of the AlMashtal Creative Hub, Princess Noura bint Saud bin Nayef Al Saud, congratulated Uzbekistan on the 35th Anniversary of Independence and emphasized the significance of preserving the art of miniature as a part of Islamic artistic heritage.
Within the framework of the event, the prospects of cooperation in the field of education and art were also discussed. Representatives of Saudi universities expressed interest in partnering with the Kamoliddin Behzod National Institute of Fine Arts and Design, including academic exchanges, joint research and professional contacts.
Exhibition will remain open to visitors for two days. Practical masterclasses will also be held for 35 Saudi amateur artists and young masters under the guidance of Uzbek specialists.
