PLATE WITH A SYMBOLIC MODEL OF THE SOLAR SYSTEM

The plate with the symbolic model of solar system made of bronze was supposedly created in 12th-11th centuries BC, and was discovered in Sevan Basin.

The bronze plate represents a model of geocentric solar system. In the centre of the lower part is the planet Earth, depicted as a semicircular battle-axe blade with a cruciform base (the image resembles the sign of the planet Earth accepted in modern astronomical literature). It is surrounded by two rings, marking the layers of water and atmosphere. Relatively larger radiant disc above symbolizes the Sun. Between the sun and the earth are five planets visible to the naked eye: Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn and the Moon. The Moon was considered the closest independent luminary to the Earth. Such an arrangement of geocentric system is also found in medieval Armenian manuscripts. According to astronomers B. Toumanian, as far back as the Bronze Age, the inhabitants of the Armenian Highland had assumed the round nature of the Earth, probably, in resemblance with luminaries visible in the sky.

Source: History Museum of Armenia