Catalog Archive
Auction 134, Lot 63

"Le Systeme de Ptolemee [on sheet with] Le Systeme de Ticho-Brahe [and] Le Systeme de Copernic [and] Le Systeme de Descartes", Brion de la Tour/Desnos

Subject: Solar System

Period: 1770 (published)

Publication: Atlas General Methodique et Elementaire

Color: Hand Color

Size:
21 x 14.5 inches
53.3 x 36.8 cm
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This highly decorative copper engraving explains the four prevailing theories of the Solar System in large spheres. The four spheres describes the solar systems by Descartes, Ptolemy, Ticho-Brahe and Copernicus. Smaller spheres are views of the planets (out to Saturn), the sun, and the moon along with their symbols. The map (9.7 x 10.3") is surrounded in an elaborate baroque style border featuring cherubs using globes and cartographic instruments and flanked by panels of French text which were printed on separate sheets.

References:

Condition: A

Image is fine with just a little edge toning in margins and pin holes at the extreme tip of each corner in blank margins.

Estimate: $150 - $180

Sold for: $100

Closed on 12/1/2010

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