Catalog Archive
Auction 162, Lot 45

The Southern Sky Superimposed on a Terrestrial Map of the Americas

"Haemisphaerium Stellatum Australe Aequali Sphaerarum Proportione", Cellarius/Schenk & Valck

Subject: Celestial

Period: 1708 (published)

Publication: Atlas Coelestis seu Harmonia Macrocosmica

Color: Hand Color

Size:
20 x 16.9 inches
50.8 x 42.9 cm
Download High Resolution Image
(or just click on image to launch the Zoom viewer)

This is one of the finest celestial charts from the golden age of Dutch cartography. The map presents the constellations of the southern sky superimposed on a terrestrial map of the Americas; thus giving the effect that the stellar system is viewed from space. The terrestrial map shows North America as far as the island of California and Chesapeake Bay. The constellations are presented in classical mythological form and include Ptolemaic constellations as well as those of Tycho Brahe, Plancius and Keyzer. Richly engraved in the baroque style with the title emblazoned across two drapes that are supported by putti and angels. The sphere is supported by Titans with a group of astronomers in the background. Third state with the imprint of Valck & Schenk at bottom center.

References: Burden #347; Kanas #7.1.2; McLaughlin #C-1; Van der Krogt (Vol. I) #HM29:1.

Condition: B+

A fine, dark impression with full original color that has been partially refreshed, light soiling, and scattered foxing primarily confined to the blank margins. The centerfold has been professionally reinforced.

Estimate: $2,400 - $3,000

Sold for: $1,600

Closed on 4/26/2017

Archived