AN OTTOMAN COMPASS AND QIBLA INDICATOR , 19TH CENTURY

A case, the frame painted in gold, decorated with a crescent moon and star in the center, opening in two parts.
The inside of the cover painted with a central medallion representing aerial view of the al-Masdjid al-Ḥaram mosque in Mecca, surrounded by a polychrome decoration of flowers and foliage on an ocher background.
The inside of the box with a compass and compass rose in twelve directions, divided into degrees, with painted medallion view of the Al-Aqsa Mosque.
This instrument, with the direction of the qibla positioned directly straight south, was made exclusively for Medina. To use it, orientate it by making the needle coincide with the northern minaret, then turn the box until the needle aligns with the direction of the qibla. The instrument can also be used to determine the true noon indicated when the string matches its own shadow on the meridian. At this time it also indicates true south, and therefore the direction of Mecca.
With miniatures representing the sacred sites of Mecca.
Painted wood, brass hinges and closure.
26.3 cm. by 17.9 cm.