Astrology & Divination

This intricate volvelle is a rare surviving example of a medieval paper instrument used for astronomical or calendrical calculations. The rotating wheels allowed scholars to track celestial movements or determine dates by aligning the various numerical scales. The central figures likely represent authoritative scholars or personifications of time, adding an allegorical layer to this functional scientific tool.

This engraving from Johannes Kepler’s 1619 masterpiece, Harmonices Mundi, illustrates his theory that the distances between planetary orbits are determined by the five Platonic solids. The diagram maps the orbits of Saturn and Jupiter relative to the 'Cubus' (cube) and 'Tetrahedron,' culminating in a nested circular model of the inner solar system. It represents a pivotal moment in the history of science where Kepler attempted to reconcile ancient geometric harmony with his new laws of planetary motion.

This intricate woodcut depicts the 'Jyotishakalpadruma,' or the 'Wish-fulfilling Tree of Astrology.' Rooted in the four foundational Vedas, the tree branches out into the various specialized fields of Indian astronomical and astrological science, such as mathematical astronomy (Siddhanta) and mundane astrology (Samhita). It serves as a sophisticated visual mnemonic, illustrating the vast and interconnected structure of traditional Vedic knowledge systems.

This intricate geometric diagram illustrates complex astronomical calculations from a historical Indian scientific treatise. The sphere, marked with various arcs and Devanagari labels, likely represents the celestial sphere used to determine planetary positions or shadows. Such diagrams are crucial for understanding the sophisticated mathematical traditions of pre-modern India.

This intricate diagram, known as a Rashichakra, illustrates the twelve signs of the zodiac and their associated planetary rulers according to Vedic astrology. At its center, a vertical axis shaped like a trident (Trishula) anchors the celestial arrangement, highlighting the interconnectedness of cosmic forces. Such diagrams are essential tools in the study of the Brihat Jataka, a foundational text on horoscopy by the 6th-century polymath Varahamihira.

This historiated initial 'P' depicts a complex allegorical scene involving human figures and a dragon. Such decorative elements were common in early printed books to mark the beginning of new chapters, serving both as a navigational aid and a visual commentary on the text's themes.

This intricate engraving, likely from Robert Fludd's monumental work 'Utriusque Cosmi' (1617-1621), illustrates a pneumatic experiment designed to demonstrate the principles of air expansion and contraction. The apparatus consists of a large leaden sphere (A) connected by a curved tube (E) to a water-filled vessel (C), showing how heat—symbolized by the sun in the upper corner—affects the pressure and movement of fluids. Fludd's work is a prime example of the early modern synthesis of empirical observation, mechanical philosophy, and hermetic mysticism.

This striking illustration depicts the celestial bodies Sol and Luna as personified figures riding in chariots across the heavens. In the upper register, Sol is shown crowned and holding a banner, drawn by a team of horses against a vibrant red background; below, Luna wears a horned headdress and holds a sphere, pulled by a pair of oxen against a deep blue field. This imagery exemplifies medieval cosmological traditions that visualized the movements of the sun and moon through classical mythological archetypes.

This diagram represents a traditional North Indian astrological chart, known as a Kundli. It is divided into twelve houses (bhavas), each representing different aspects of human life, and serves as a foundational tool in Vedic astrology for casting horoscopes and interpreting planetary influences.