This interesting copper engraving shows the city of Pompeii and its proximity to the Phlegraean Fields volcanic region. Kircher observed the eruption of Vesuvius in 1637, which inspired him to study the physical makeup of the earth. This is from Kircher's masterpiece, an immense and amazing work covering all aspects of anything that dwelled or occurred within the earth's interior - from dragons, to fossils, to mountain springs, earthquakes, and volcanoes. Kircher's work was the first serious effort to describe the physical makeup of the earth, proposing theories (sometimes fantastic) in the areas of physics, geography, geology, and chemistry. He suggested the existence of a vast network of underground springs and reservoirs, as well as the theory that subterranean temperatures increase directly in proportion to depth. Published in a Dutch edition of Kircher's famous Subterranean World. On a full sheet of Dutch text measuring 9.6 x 14.6".

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Condition: A

A sharp impression on a bright sheet with minor damp stains along the edges of the sheet.