Cappuccino Quadrant – 15th-century replica – A gift for an astronomer or sailor – H28

Cappuccino Quadrant – 15th-century replica – A gift for an astronomer or sailor – H28 A quadrant is a historical navigational and astronomical instrument used to measure the altitude of celestial bodies (e.g. the Sun, stars) above the horizon. In practice, it was mainly used in: astronomy – for observing and mapping the sky, maritime navigation – for determining a ship’s latitude. The name Cappuccino derives from the shape of the Capuchin monks’ hoods (Cappuccino), as the shape of this device was reminiscent of them to contemporaries. The quadrant is made of zamak (a zinc-aluminium alloy) and mounted on an elegant wooden base. The replica is characterised by high-quality craftsmanship and durability. Carefully embossed details and a solid finish make it a unique collector’s item. The replica has been calibrated to a latitude of 51.5°N, It is the perfect decoration for an office, library or vintage-style interior, but also an excellent gift for enthusiasts of astronomy, the history of science or sailing. Product information: Height: 11 cm Width: 8 cm Historical replica of a 15th-century quadrant Ideal for collectors and lovers of vintage items A retro-style decoration for an office, study or library A unique gift for a collector of historical instruments or an enthusiast of old technologies How did the quadrant work? 1. The sailor or astronomer held the instrument vertically. 2. They aimed at a celestial body through the sight. 3. A weight indicated the angle value on the scale. 4. This angle above the horizon allowed one to: calculate latitude (at sea), determine position and time (in astronomy). Interesting facts: Quadrants were already in use in the Middle Ages and during the Age of Discovery. They were later replaced by sextants, which were more accurate and easier to use. The famous astronomer Tycho Brahe used very large quadrants for precise observations of the stars even before the invention of the telescope.