Catalog Archive
Auction 179, Lot 45

"Atlas, Designed to Illustrate the Geography of the Heavens...", Burritt, Elijah H.

Subject: Celestial

Period: 1833 (published)

Publication:

Color: Hand Color

Size:
14.3 x 16.3 inches
36.3 x 41.4 cm
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This is the scarcer and complete 2nd edition of this celestial atlas with seven charts of the constellations. This popular star atlas was intended for the general public, rather than for professional astronomers. Only the brighter stars and nebulae, and their allegorical forms, are depicted on the charts. The stiff paper covers include an image of a hand pouring oil into a lit lamp, along with the Latin phrase "alere flammam" (to feed the flame). Charts include:

1) The Visible Heavens in October, November, and December.
2) The Visible Heavens in January, February, and March.
3) The Visible Heavens in April, May, and June.
4) The Visible Heavens in July, August, and September.
5) Northern Circumpolar Map.
6) Southern Circumpolar Map.
7) A Celestial Planisphere, or Map of the Heavens.

References:

Condition: B

The charts are in good to very good condition with some light toning along the right border of the first chart and along the centerfold of the last chart. The remaining plates have some minor staining and soiling mostly in the blank margins. Paper wrappers are worn and soiled with two chips at bottom (front and back) that have been replaced with paper.

Estimate: $400 - $500

Sold for: $300

Closed on 9/16/2020

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