A Celestial Planisphere, or, Map of the Heavens
PrintmakerEngraved by
Vistus Balch
American, 1799 - 1884
PrintmakerEngraved by
Samuel Stiles
American, 1796 - 1861
PublisherPublished by
Silas Andrus
about 1789 - 1861
Date1861
MediumEngraving; black printer's ink and watercolor on wove paper mounted on fabric
DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (image height x width): 26 x 47 1/2in. (66 x 120.7cm)
Sheet (height x width): 28 1/2 x 49 3/4in. (72.4 x 126.4cm)
Sheet (height x width): 28 1/2 x 49 3/4in. (72.4 x 126.4cm)
ClassificationsGraphics
Credit LineConnecticut Museum of Culture and History collection
DescriptionCelestial chart showing the northern and southern hemispheres. The twelve months from April to March and the names of the signs of the Zodiac are inscribed on a band linking the two spheres. Constellations are represented figuratively; most are given their English names (the Flying Horse, the Great Bear, the Dragon, the Swan), except in the case of proper names (Andromeda, Cepheus, Perseus, Hercules). Southern constellations include the Air Pump, the Clock, the Furnace, the Microscope, the Painter's Easel, and the Telescope. A key at lower center explains the order of magnitude of the individual stars. Larger stars are identified by name. A second chart at lower center lists those stars visible at Washington, D.C. with the hours of their rising.
Object number2012.312.271
MarkingsOn verso, upper left, on gummed label, typed in black ink, "MAPS / Case 1 / No. 6"; upper right, on gummed label, typed in black ink, "MAPS / Case 1 / No. 6".InscribedOn recto, upper center, left, printed in black ink, "A / Celestial Planisphere / OR / MAP OF THE HEAVENS, / Exhibiting the several Constellations, the most prominent / stars, and great Circles of the Celestial Sphere. / Designed for the use of schools and private / families in solving the various / problems incident to the study of Astronomy. / By M. P. Bartlett."; upper center, right, printed in black ink, "To / John Quincy Adams Esquire / President of the United States of America / THIS CELESTIAL PLANISPHERE / is Most Respectfully Dedicated / by His Most Obt. Humbl. Serv. / The Author."On verso, upper left, in pencil, "MAPS / Case 1 / No. 6"; upper right, in pencil, "MAPS / Case 1 / No. 6"; lower right, in pencil, "2012.312.271"NotesCartographic Note: No scale
Collections
- Maps and Charts: Finding Your Place in Connecticut History
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