1682 Schema Corporis Solaris...
DESCRIPTION
Schema Corporis Solaris, Prout ab Auctore et P. Scheinero. Romae Anno 1635 Observatum Suits
By: Athanasius Kircher
Date: 1682 (published) Amsterdam
Dimensions: 12.9 x 15.9 inches (32.8 x 40.4 cm)
This is one of the earliest maps of the sun, which illustrates the phenomena of solar flares, sun spots and surface eruptions as observed by Athanasius Kircher and Christoph Scheiner in 1635.
This fascinating map was first published in Mundus Subterraneus (The Underground World) which sought to illustrate and describe the inner workings of the planet. This map in particular focuses on the sun and variety of solar activity it can produce. Kircher likely observed sun spots which are spots in the sun that are significantly cooler than the surrounding area. Also likely observed were solar flares, which are large eruptions of electromagnetic radiation. What's curious about Kircher's map is the appearance of land forms as if the sun were made up of volcanic ranges within a sea vast sea of fire. This depiction can likely be attributed to Kircher's own knowledge and experience with volcanoes on Earth.
Athanasius Kircher (1601 - 1680) was a prominent German Jesuite scholar of the 17th century. He was fluent in many languages as well as a mathematician, geographer, scientist, and astronomer. Kircher was in Calabria during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius and experienced the earthquakes the resulted from the eruption. This directed his interest and efforts to the study of the natural would, that would one day lead him to produce this map as well as several others from the same series.
While Kircher was incorrect in his theory of subterranean waterways being the source of ocean currents, he was mostly correct in the patterns of such currents. He was also correct in theorizing a superheated core at the center of the Earth and that earthquakes were caused by movement of the Earth's plates, otherwise known as the study of plate tectonics. A true renaissance man, Kircher's maps of the inner-workings of the planet are one of a kind, well ahead of their time, and instantly recognizable among collectors.
Condition: This map is in A condition with later coloring a top and bottom margin that are narrower than that of the sides.
Inventory #11911
1200 W. 35th Street #425 Chicago, IL 60609 | P: (312) 496 - 3622
CONDITION
1200 W. 35th Street #425 Chicago, IL 60609 | P: (312) 496 - 3622