Today we are publishing an article by Ash Mowat, a volunteer in the Civic Engagement team, on the astronomical observation of the planet Venus from Persia, 150 years ago.

In this blog we shall explore a collection of photographs recording an astronomical observation of the passage of the planet Venus as viewed from Persia (now modern- day Iran) in 1874, held in the University of Edinburgh’s Heritage Collections department.[1]

The location of the events was in the city of Isfahan, currently the third most populated city in Iran and one that retains much of its celebrated historical architecture and art.

The photographs were to record the transit of the planet Venus in December 1874, a rare event offering enhanced opportunities to observe the planet in closer detail.[2]

(The image above shows the detail captured of the planet which is remarkable given the relatively primitive telescopes that were utilised).

(In the image above, we can see set up of the larger format telescope that would have been used for the observations and photography of the passage of Venus. I like how it captures both the scientific equipment and the individuals engaged in their work, and not just a static pose before the camera).

(In the above two images we can see a set-up of one observation area at Baugh-i-Zerecht bridge at Sende-Roud, a city gate and location of the Shah Mosque which was completed in 1629 and is now a UNESCO world heritage site)

It is interesting to observe the variation between the two group photographs above, which were not positioned side by side in the folio, but that I have chosen to juxtaposite for the purposes of contrast. On the left the subjects depicted are the esteemed and privileged persons invited within the astronomical station, whilst the image on the right features a group of observers peering through the barrier of the perimeter gates.

The image on the left is more contrived, but perhaps purposely so to be a more official record, with the group members fixed rigidly for and staring towards the photographer. Many in the group are dressed in smart coats and top hats which add to the formality and might seem incongruous for the location.

I prefer the photograph on the right as here the subjects are much more natural, relaxed, and are not posing for or deferring to the photographer. The narrow depth of field utilised in the image nicely keeps its focus sharp solely on the central figures and blurs out the fore and background. Rather, their facial expressions and positions portray the connection and warmth between the group members, who might equally either be curious or indifferent to the events taking place within the gates.

(In the dramatic landscape image above, we have a brilliantly lit view of the Fatima Masumeh Shrine in the city of Qom. [3])

(I like this photograph for choosing to include the ordinary citizens homes of the period, perilously perched within the imposing mountains).

In conclusion, it was a privilege to view this stunning collection of photographs, clearly taken by a professional as the image quality, lighting and composition are of a great quality for the standards and capabilities of photography of this era. These images capture and preserve the dramatic landscapes of what was then Persia, and the people involved in the recording of this rare astronomical event.

I should like to thank my supervisor Laura Beattie (University of Edinburgh Community Engagement Officer) for support and guidance, and to all staff at the University of Edinburgh Centre for Research Heritage Collections for enabling access to view.

[1] https://archives.collections.ed.ac.uk/repositories/2/resources/340

[2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Passage_de_V%C3%A9nus

[3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qom