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Set of Six Johann Bayer Celestial Engravings

Name: Set of Six Johann Bayer Celestial Engravings
Brand: Johann Bayer

$18,000List Priceper set

About the Item

JOHANN BAYER (1572-1625) From Uranometria, omnium asterismorum continens schemata... Copper-plate engravings with hand-coloring Paper size: approx 12 x 16”; Framed size: 24 x 27 5/8” Published in Berlin, 1661. Set of 6 Though he was a lawyer and not an astronomer by profession, Johann Bayer created one of the most memorable seventeenthcentury guides to the constellations, entitled Uranometria in honor of Urania, the muse of astronomy. First published in Augsburg in 1603, the Uranometria included celestial maps that were not only highly appealing on a visual level, but also significant in the history of astronomy. They were the first charts to identify astral magnitude (brightness) with a lettering system, using Greek characters for the brighter stars and Roman letters for the fainter. Although the Italian cartographer Alessandro Piccolomini had earlier used a somewhat similar system, it was not until Augustin Royer used the Bayer letters in 1679, followed shortly by John Flamsteed, that the system gained currency among celestial chartmakers. Bayer”™s atlas also added twelve new constellations, in the southern sky, to the forty-eight of Ptolemy. Bayer”™s stellar lettering system -- which we still use for stars visible to the naked eye -- and his presentation of the recently discovered constellations were significant contributions to celestial cartography. Ironically, it may be that his work on the atlas had an ulterior motive. Bayer, by profession a lawyer, was really an amateur astronomer. He dedicated his atlas to the city council and to two leading citizens of Augsburg, who rewarded him with an honorarium and, later, a seat on the council as legal adviser. In any event, these are important star charts of considerable charm from the early seventeenth century.

Creator:
Johann Bayer (Artist)
Sold As:
Set of 6
Period:
18th Century and Earlier
Date of Manufacture:
1661
Condition:
Seller Location:
New York, NY
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU88891122418

Antique 1740s German Georgian Prints

Materials

Paper

Botanical Splendor- Johann Weinmann Set of Twelve Botanical Engravings

$28,000 / set

H 14.5 in W 19.25 in D 1 in

Hand-Colored Engraving of the Hudson Bay Heron by Johann Michael Seligmann, 1770

Located in Langweer, NL

Title: Der Reiher aus der Hudsons-Bay - Hand-Colored Engraving of the Hudson Bay Heron by Johann Michael Seligmann, 18th Century This exquisite hand-colored engraving, titled 'Der Reiher aus der Hudsons-Bay', depicts the Hudson Bay Heron (Ardea stellaris Canadensis), showcasing the bird’s distinct plumage and posture with vibrant precision. Created by Johann Michael Seligmann, a renowned German engraver and illustrator, this piece belongs to his influential series *Sammlung verschiedener ausländischer und seltener Vögel* (Collection of Various Foreign and Rare Birds). Seligmann’s work adapted the illustrations of eminent naturalists, including George Edwards, bringing these images to a German audience while preserving both scientific detail and aesthetic charm. The plate, numbered "Tab. XXXI," captures the heron standing elegantly, with finely rendered feather patterns and delicate coloring that highlight Seligmann’s attention to detail. The botanical element at the bird’s feet, along with the French title *Le Butor de la Baye de Hudson*, adds context to the species' natural environment. This engraving, with its Latin nomenclature, reflects the era’s fascination with exotic fauna and is a wonderful example of 18th-century ornithological artistry. Perfect for collectors of historical natural history illustrations or enthusiasts of rare avian artwork, this piece embodies Seligmann’s artistic legacy. His engravings remain highly collectible for their combination of scientific accuracy and visual beauty, making this print an exceptional addition to any antique print collection.

Category

Antique 1770s Prints

Materials

Paper

Hand-Colored Engraving of the Hudson Bay Heron by Johann Michael Seligmann, 1770

$586 Sale Price

20% Off

H 14.57 in W 9.85 in D 0 in

Engraving of the Large Black Duck from Hudson s Bay by Johann Seligmann, ca.1770

Located in Langweer, NL

Title: Die Große Schwarze Ente aus der Hudsons-Bay - Hand-Colored Engraving of the Large Black Duck from Hudson's Bay by Johann Michael Seligmann, 18th Century This striking hand-co...

Category

Antique 1770s Prints

Materials

Paper

Engraving of the Large Black Duck from Hudson s Bay by Johann Seligmann, ca.1770

$558 Sale Price

$747 Sale Price

20% Off

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H 16.93 in W 9.85 in D 0 in

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Set of Six Johann Bayer Celestial Engravings

About the Item

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