Description
The 29 cosmological engravings of Harmonia Macrocosmica are together a compendium of theories of the universe as of the late 17th century. Cellarius illustrated various theories of astronomy, including the Ptolemaic theory (the earth was at the center of the universe), the revolutionary Copernican theory (the sun was at the center of the solar system), and Tycho Brahe’s compromise intermediate theory. The set also contains numerous magnificent constellation charts of the northern and southern hemispheres illustrating star formations in traditional classical mythological and scientific instrument forms, as well as an alternative interpretation of the stars in biblical forms.
Andreas Cellarius, is considered by many to have produced the most beautiful celestial atlas ever made. Born in Neuhausen, Germany (now known as Worms), Cellarius was educated at the University of Heidelberg. In 1625, he was working as a schoolmaster in Amsterdam. In 1637, he became the rector of the Latin School at Hoorn, Holland, where he remained for the rest of his life. He published works on fortifications and on Poland, but is remembered for Harmonia Macrocosmica, originally issued by Jan Jansson in 1660. The first edition, second issue, is identical except for the change of date to 1661. The Dutch publishers Peter Schenk and Gerard Valk reissued the Cellarius atlas in 1708 with the original copper plates; they are identified by the addition of their imprint in the right side title banner or in the lower center border.
Condition: Generally very good, recently professionally cleaned and deacidifed, the vertical centerfold flattened, now with only minor overall toning, wear, handling.
References:
“Andreas Cellarius.” Wikipedia. 13 November 2014. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andreas_Cellarius (20 November 2014).
Brown, Basil. Astronomical Atlases, Charts and Maps: An Historical and General Guide. London: Dawsons of Pall Mall, 1968. 40-41.
Koeman, Cornelis and van der Krogt, Peter C.J. Atlantes Neerlandici. ‘T Goy-Houten : Westrenen, 1997. 2.
Snyder, George Sergeant. Maps of the Heavens. New York: Abbeville Press, 1984. p. 115.
