ABSTRACT
A plate of the compact cluster of galaxies Shakhbazian I is shown and described. Various possible models for the cluster are analyzed. We conclude, as did Robinson and Wampler (1973), that it is most likely a highly condensed bound cluster of compact galaxies. The total mass of the cluster is 4-7 >c 1011 , and the mass-to-light ratio (photographic) is 0.30.5. The nature of the galaxies, the size of the cluster, and the very small velocity dispersion all make this cluster unique. Key words: galaxies - cluster of galaxies - compact galaxies