Astrological Plaque
1600 - 1700 (made)
| Artist/Maker | |
| Place of origin |
This plaque and the accompanying sets of dice were made to predict the future. A diviner would throw the dice, and then interpret the results with the aid of the astrological designs on the plaque. The engraved designs include the signs of the zodiac, along with various inscriptions.
The art of using dice for fortune-telling was developed at least 4000 years ago, long before dice were first used to play games. In Iran, divining with dice was known as raml, and was practised using eight dice held on two spindles, as in this set. Only four sides of each die are numbered, while the other two sides are pierced to allow the spindle to pass through.
The art of using dice for fortune-telling was developed at least 4000 years ago, long before dice were first used to play games. In Iran, divining with dice was known as raml, and was practised using eight dice held on two spindles, as in this set. Only four sides of each die are numbered, while the other two sides are pierced to allow the spindle to pass through.
Object details
| Object type | |
| Parts | This object consists of 3 parts.
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| Materials and techniques | Cast and engraved bronze |
| Brief description | Middle East, Metalwork; Disc with two sets of dice, brass with engraved inscriptions and figures, for use in astrological divination, Safavid Iran, 1600-1700 |
| Dimensions |
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| Gallery label |
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| Summary | This plaque and the accompanying sets of dice were made to predict the future. A diviner would throw the dice, and then interpret the results with the aid of the astrological designs on the plaque. The engraved designs include the signs of the zodiac, along with various inscriptions. The art of using dice for fortune-telling was developed at least 4000 years ago, long before dice were first used to play games. In Iran, divining with dice was known as raml, and was practised using eight dice held on two spindles, as in this set. Only four sides of each die are numbered, while the other two sides are pierced to allow the spindle to pass through. |
| Collection | |
| Accession number | 505 to B-1888 |
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| Record created | August 31, 2007 |
| Record URL |
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