Catalog Archive
Auction 128, Lot 88

"[Lot of 6 - Muggletonian Planetary Charts]", Frost, Isaac

Subject: Solar System

Period: 1846 (published)

Publication: Two Systems of Astronomy

Color: Hand Color

Size:
11 x 7.7 inches
27.9 x 19.6 cm
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This exquisite and luminous set of prints depict the solar system, from the view of the Holy Scriptures (plates 7, 9 &10) and the opposing view of Newton (plates 1, 3 & 6). The Muggletonians were a small English religious sect that objected to "modern" science, particularly heliocentric astronomy and Newtonian physics. Founded in the 1650's by two cousins who received "messages from God" that they were the chosen witnesses prophesized in the Book of Revelations to preach to the ungodly world in its final days. The sect lasted well into the Victorian era. Isaac Frost, a scientist and prominent member of the sect was instrumental in the refinement of the Muggletonian's geocentric astronomical theory.

These charts are authentic Baxter prints, printed in color by a patented process using oil pigments. The process produced beautiful gradations of color, but was far too expensive for commercial use. These are among the scarcest of known Baxter prints, as they were meant to be circulated only among sect members. In addition to the scarcity, they are important documents in the history of the relationship between religion and science.

References:

Condition: A

There is the faintest spots on a couple of prints, still overall very good.

Estimate: $1,400 - $1,800

Sold for: $1,000

Closed on 5/20/2009

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