Planisphaerium Caeleste - Eimmart / Homann 1720

Engraved plate depicting a celestial planisphere, issued within the Nuremberg cartographic tradition. The composition relates to the representation of the celestial sphere, structured according to early eighteenth-century European astronomical cartography.

The layout is defined by clarity and decorative richness, with a careful delineation of constellations, zodiacal paths, and principal astronomical elements. The engraved line, refined and analytical, provides an ordered and harmonious reading of the heavens, balancing scientific function and visual appeal.

This example represents German cartographic production of its time and belongs to the tradition of scientific and cosmographical mapping, constituting a significant testimony to astronomical knowledge and its illustrated dissemination.

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Art Historical Note
Georg Christoph Eimmart, astronomer and engraver active in Nuremberg, stands among the leading figures of late seventeenth- and early eighteenth-century celestial cartography, distinguished by scientific precision and graphic quality. His work was often republished and disseminated by Johann Baptist Homann, a central figure in European cartography.

The plate belongs to a corpus of celestial maps intended for both study and dissemination, reflecting the strong interest in astronomy and cosmography within Baroque scientific culture.

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Technical Sheet
Type: Plate / celestial map
Author: G. Eimmart
Publisher: Homann, Nuremberg
Place: Nuremberg
Period: circa 1720
Material: Paper
Technique: Etching
Decoration: Rich decorative scheme with constellations and symbolic figures
Dimensions:
Sheet: 55.5 x 65 cm
Plate: 48.5 x 57 cm
Marks / signatures / inscriptions: Title “Planisphaerium Caeleste”

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Condition Report
Sheet in excellent overall condition.
No significant defects observed.
Engraved surface clear and well preserved.
Verso blank.