1860 Reynolds's Popular Astronomy - Astronomical Diagrams
By: James Reynolds & John Emslie
Date: 1860 (circa) London
Dimensions: 11.5 x 9.5 inches (29.25 x 24 cm)
An impressive mid-19th century astronomical portfolio consisting of 15 celestial plates, published by James Reynolds, designed by John Emslie. This portfolio was produced for an emerging market of popular science products and with the intended use as an informal learning aid within the home.
In the mid-19th century, astronomy underwent a surge of interest and exploration, reflecting humanity's growing fascination with the cosmos. Amidst this period of enlightenment, a remarkable set of fifteen hand-colored engraved plates emerged as an invaluable tool for classroom instruction in the field of astronomy. Printed on sturdy cardstock and presented in a flexible portfolio format, these illustrations offered students a tangible glimpse into the celestial realm. These portfolios could be bought in sets or singly and, at a price of 1 shilling, were affordable to middle class audiences.
Among the collection, some diagrams utilized innovative techniques, featuring transparent overlays with intricately cut-out sections to illustrate various astronomical phenomena. Enhanced by color tissue backing, these overlays transformed when held up to light, illuminating planets and stars in a captivating array of vivid hues. Accompanying these visual aids was Reynolds' comprehensive 16-page pamphlet, elucidating key concepts such as the sun, solar system, planets, moon, seasons, eclipses, and other celestial wonders.
Reynolds' educational contribution did not go unnoticed, earning acclaim at the International Exhibition of 1862 with a prestigious prize medal. This recognition underscored the importance of accessible educational materials in fostering a deeper understanding of the universe during this era of astronomical exploration.
List of Plates in the Astronomical Portfolio
- The Planets
- The Earth and its Atmosphere
- Transparent Diagram of the Phases of the Moon
- Transparent Solar System
- The Earth's Annual Revolution Round the Sun
- Comets
- Eclipses [and] The Theory of the Tides
- The Seasons and Signs of the Zodiac
- Telescopic View of the Moon
- Methods of Ascertaining the Longitude
- Methods of Ascertaining the Latitude
- Diagram of Meteorology
- The Sun and Solar Phenomena
- Comparative Magnitudes of the Planets
- Chart of the Heavens
The original portfolio that holds the plates has maroon cloth covers with black and gold embossed title and decorative frame. Inside, we find a pamphlet that offers as described, "A description of the principal phenomena of astronomy, including the sun; the solar system, planets, the Earth and its atmosphere, the season, the moon and its phases, day and night, eclipses, tides, stars, nebulae, &c."
Condition: Portfolio and plates are in B+ condition with signs of ware through classroom use. The plates offer bright colors on lightly toned cardstock. The portfolio is worn but still quite lovely with bumped corners, small abrasions, and a sunned and worn spine. The pamphlet has light soiling and foxing.
Inventory #12733
1200 W. 35th St. #425 Chicago, IL 60609 | P: (312) 496 - 3622