Antique Chart of the Passage of Comets in the Southern Sky, circa 1740

Sea Charts · 18th century

Antique Chart of the Passage of Comets in the Southern Sky, circa 1740

€ 2 500

One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.

Date: 1740
Technique: Engraved
Sheet size: 53 × 62.7 cm (20.9 × 24.7 in)
Condition: Good
Reference: PCT-59812

Condition

Good, given age. Edges with an occasional tiny tears, not affecting image. Some staining and light soiling in the margins. Some crinkles and creases. A few minor spots. Original middle fold as issued. General age-related toning. Please study images.

About this sheet

Antique map titled 'Motus Comtarum in Hemispaerio Australi (..)'. This uncommon chart depicts the passage of comets in the southern sky between the years 1530-1704. Centered on the ecliptic poles and shows the constellation figures based on classical mythology, without showing the stars. The paths of dozens of comets are illustrated, eincluding those sighted by Tycho Brahe, John Flamsteed, Johannes Hevelius, and many others. The chart also identifies "newly discovered" stars between 1572-1686. Surrounding the hemisphere are various diagrams related to comets and a chart listing details regarding the comets and stars depicted on the charts. Published by the Homann Heirs, circa 1740.