"[Volvelle]", Galluci, Giovanni Paolo

This fascinating and fully functional volvelle provides a table of sunrise times. There is an engraved circle with 31 divisions and tables of times, into which a separate piece of paper is attached with a red satin ribbon. This inner piece is marked with the twelve months, and rotates around the circle. An extremely interesting apparatus, more amazing for the fact that it is still fully functional. Because of their delicate nature most volvelles have not survived intact. Gallucci's work, originally published in Latin (Theatrum Mundi, et Temporis…) in 1588, was completed only 45 years after Copernicus' landmark astronomical work. It is notable for being the first star atlas to use a complete coordinate system. The atlas was very popular and went through numerous printings including the Spanish editions from 1606-57 that were printed in Granada. Galluci included 51 different volvelles in this important early star atlas. The volvelle measures 5.3" in diameter; the measurement given at left is for the full sheet.

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Condition: A+