Description
In the introduction, the author waxed philosophically of the importance and worthiness of the study of astronomy in general and as an essential element in proper education:
Astronomy, therefore, surpasses every other science in the sublimity and grandeur of the objects which it contemplates. The magnificent appearance of the Celestial Bodies, the regularity and harmony of their motions, combined with the various phenomena they display, strike us with astonishment and profound admiration !
There is no art or science whatever, so well calculated to improve and elevate the human mind, to give us so just conception of ourselves, and to excite in us such exalted ideas of our beneficent Creator, as that of Astronomy.
The author also summarized the various functions of his unique work:
Thus in one book are comprehended, a Familiar Treatise on Astronomy; two Moveable Plates of the Celestial Globe, with Problems thereon; a Manual Planetarium, on which a variety of instructive and amusing experiments may be performed; and a complete Atlas of the Starry Heavens; which it is hoped will be found equally useful to Families, the Conductors of Schools, private Students, and to Mariners.
In addition, the author specified the numerous functions of the plate of the solar system:
In the description and use of the third Moveable Plate, which may be called a Manual Planetarium, the apparent motion of the Sun in the Ecliptic; the cause of the appearance of certain Fixed Stars at different hours of the Night, and at different times of the Year; the Seasons; Long and Short Days: Polar Day and Night; the Precession of the Equinox ; the real and apparent motions of the Planets; their Direct, Retrograde, and Stationary appearances; the inclination of their orbits to the plane of the Ecliptic; their Nodes, Latitude, &c. are all familiarly illustrated; including a very instructive and amusing practice, with rules and examples for representing the position and phases of the Earth, Moon, and Planets for any given day. Then follows the Eclipses of the Sun and Moon, illustrated by suitable diagrams.
Accordingly, the atlas can be seen as a teaching tool bridging the gap between a two dimensional book and three dimensional scientific demonstrations devices. The rotating celestial maps on the simulated globe stands accomplish to some degree the role of a three-dimensional globe. The zodiac print similarly provides an interactive moving device akin to a tellurian, or as the author referred to it, a “Moveable Planeatarium.” Thus, the atlas gives student access to object learning devices, but in a portable, easy accessible, economic format. In addition, the atlas reflects a blend of artistic craftsmanship with scientific utility, reflecting the values of the Age of Enlightenment and Industrial Revolution in England – particularly in the era’s focus on mechanical innovation, education, and the democratization of knowledge to reach a broader audience. Examples of the atlas with functioning parts on the three moveable plates are uncommon. One complete and intact edition is housed in the University of California library.
Full Title: The British Celestial Atlas; Being a Complete Guide to the Attainment of a Practical Knowledge of the Heavenly Bodies: Containing Twelve Royal Quarto Maps; or Entire Views of the Starry Heavens, as they Appear to the Naked Eye; Adapted for Every Night Throughout the Year: on Which are Carefully Laid Down all the Stars Visible in the British Empire, from the First to the Fourth Magnitude; with the Boundaries of the Constellations Accurately Defined. Also Three Moveable Plates, and a Plate of Diagrams, to Elucidate the Motions of the Earth and the Celestial Bodies: Accompanied by a Familiar Treatise on Astronomy. By G. Rubie, Teacher of Geography, the Use of the Globes, Astronomy, and Navigation, Hastings.
Condition: Generally very good, the applied paper volvelles and attachments in good working condition, otherwise internally with light toning, wear, handling, and occasional faint foxing. Later quarter calf leather binding with marbleized boards very good.
References:
“The British Celestial Atlas.” Babel. https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=ucbk.ark:/28722/h2n873j8q&seq=1 (27 March 2025).
“Out of This World.” Linda Hall. https://www.lindahall.org/experience/digital-exhibitions/out-of-this-world/36-bode-s-uranographia-and-its-aftermath-1801-1851/40-rubie-g-the-british-celestial-atlas/. (27 March 2025).
