This sheet focuses on the various theories of the orbits of the planets. Around the edges of the map are 7 spherical diagrams illustrating the theories of Ptolemy, Plutarch, and others. The center of the sheet shows Copernicus' heliocentric theory with the earth revolving around the sun, depicting the earth in 12 phases of its rotation. Below the title is a lovely allegorical scene with Helios, the Greek sun god, driving his chariot of the sun towards his sister, Selene, the goddess of the moon. The scene is filled with putti, with several putti near Selene shining light through the clouds to represent stars.

Johann Gabriel Doppelmayr was a professor of mathematics at the Aegidien Gymnasium in Nuremberg. Doppelmayr and Johann Baptist Homann were frequent collaborators in producing celestial and astronomical charts for atlases. This chart was engraved between 1735 and 1742 and appeared in the two major compilations of Dopplemayr’s works published by Homann Heirs; Atlas Coelestis in quo Mundus Spectabilis... in 1742, and the revised edition Atlas Novus Coelestis... in 1748. Read more about Doppelmayr's life and accomplishments here.

References: Kanas #7.8.3.

Condition: A

A nice impression with attractive color on watermarked paper. There is a hint of toning along centerfold, two small worm holes, and a faint crease at bottom left.