The Hall of Heavenly Records: Korean Astronomical Instruments and Clocks, 1380-1780

Joseph Needham,Lu Gwei-Djen,John H. Combridge,John S. Major

The Hall of Heavenly Records: Korean Astronomical Instruments and Clocks, 1380-1780
Format
Paperback
Publisher
Cambridge University Press
Country
United Kingdom
Published
16 December 2004
Pages
224
ISBN
9780521616980

The Hall of Heavenly Records: Korean Astronomical Instruments and Clocks, 1380-1780

Joseph Needham,Lu Gwei-Djen,John H. Combridge,John S. Major

Between the fourteenth and the eighteenth centuries, there was created under the Yi Dynasty in Korea a remarkable series of astronomical instruments, star-charts and clocks. The present volume is the result of close collaboration between four distinguished historians of Asian science to demonstrate the context, purpose, nature and specific workings of these early scientific instruments. Specially commissioned drawings and other illustrations demonstrate their complexities of design and operation. A brief introduction is given to the Chinese background of Korean astronomy and astronomical instrument-making and to the renaissance of Korean astronomy in the early fifteenth century. In a detailed examination of the instruments made under the supervision of King Sejong in the 1430s, there is documentation of the re-equipping of the Royal Observatory, with identification of the individual instruments involved. A survey of the succeeding two centuries gives the background to Song Iyong’s instrument, identified as a demonstrational armillary sphere in the Koryo University Museum.

This item is not currently in-stock. It can be ordered online and is expected to ship in approx 2 weeks

Our stock data is updated periodically, and availability may change throughout the day for in-demand items. Please call the relevant shop for the most current stock information. Prices are subject to change without notice.

Sign in or become a Readings Member to add this title to a wishlist.