12477 Athanasius Kircher (1602–1680) – Map of the Moon – World – Engraving (1665)
"Typus Corporis Lunaris". This engraving provides a seventeenth-century scientific representation of the lunar surface. The composition depicts the moon as a spherical body, utilizing intricate cross-hatching and stippling to delineate the maria, highland regions, and prominent impact craters. Kircher’s map reflects the early telescopic observations of the era, showcasing major features like the ray system of the Tycho crater at the bottom and the Copernicus crater to the left. This work was published in Amsterdam as a specialized plate within the encyclopedic treatise Mundus Subterraneus, which explored the physical and celestial systems of the universe.
Athanasius Kircher was a German Jesuit scholar and a prominent figure in the scientific revolution of the Baroque period. Known for his vast intellect, he published dozens of works on subjects as varied as magnetism, optics, and egyptology. His interest in astronomy led him to incorporate celestial studies into his broader geographical and geological theories. Kircher’s maps and diagrams were celebrated for their high level of detail and served to disseminate complex scientific concepts to a wide European audience.
Artist or Maker: Athanasius Kircher.
Dimensions: Approximately 40 cm x 35 cm.
Medium: Engraving.
Date: 1665.
Condition Report:
This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report.
| Estimate | 600 - 800 SEK |
| Buyers Premium (inc. VAT) | 24.4% |
| Hammer Fee (inc. VAT) | 6 SEK |
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