The Theory of Epicycles
1660
Imagine trying to map the heavens using only circles—that’s the challenge Andreas Cellarius tackled in this stunning 1660 diagram. It illustrates the 'epicyclic' theory of planetary motion, featuring a complex web of geometric circles and Latin text, all framed by fluffy clouds and playful cherubs holding banners. This plate comes from his legendary atlas *Harmonia Macrocosmica*, proving that 17th-century science was as much about artistic beauty as it was about math.
- Technique
- Hand-colored engraving
- Material
- Paper
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