Based on my research the history of the luopan and the compass are intertwined. The compass was invented by the Chinese around 4000 BC and its early design resembled more like the luopan than the common compass we see today. Hence, it brings rise to the question in history as to whether the development of the compass was first as geomantic device or for navigation first.
luo pan
Contributed by Glen Tay Cheung Ning
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