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.
Saudi Press: Uzbekistan plays an important role in the revival of Islamic Science and Cultural Heritage
Analytical materials dedicated to the 1st International Forum of Islamic Civilization held in Uzbekistan, as well as the initiatives put forward within its framework, have been published in the authoritative media of Saudi Arabia, reports Dunyo IA.
In particular, “Al-Watan” newspaper presented the First International Forum of Islamic Civilization not merely as a traditional academic meeting, but as a large-scale historical project aimed at the revival of Islamic culture. In the publication, Uzbekistan is recognized as one of the most important historical cradles of the Islamic world.
“UNA” Information Agency paid special attention to the reforms in the religious and educational sphere implemented at the initiative of the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev.
It is emphasized that the restoration and study of the rich spiritual and cultural heritage in the country has been elevated to the rank of state policy. It is noted that the Samarkand Declaration, adopted following the forum, as well as the new scientific initiatives proposed on its basis, will be of great importance for the preservation of the traditions of Hadith studies and Islamic heritage.
Saudi media also detailed the Center for Islamic Civilization of Uzbekistan. It is noted that the Center is a modern scientific and educational institution designed to study, preserve and popularize the Islamic culture, scientific heritage, and spiritual values of the country.
Center's exposition includes materials on the lives and scientific heritage of great scholars born on the territory of modern Uzbekistan, rare manuscripts, ancient copies of the Quran, archaeological finds, historical documents, works of art, as well as modern interactive multimedia exhibitions.
