While our images are electronically watermarked, the antique prints themselves are not.

Comet Lutetitae Parifiorum 1664 TC31 $695
Approximately 15 1/4 inches wide by 12 inches long
Extra wide top & bottom margins not shown

We are very pleased to present these beautiful hand colored copper engravings from the 1600’s.  The Theatrum Comicum or Theater of Comets is a fascinating glimpse into the understanding of the universe in the 1600’s.  While the work is principally concerned with comets, it contributed in a major way to celestial cartography as each of the prints is actually a sectional star map, with a comet moving through it. Each comet mapper drew his own chart, thus presenting many different & highly decorative celestial charts.

Lubinetski’s book compiled European accounts of the comets of 1664 and 1665, and provided a general history of cometary phenomena. Counter to the widespread belief that comets were ill-omens, Lubinetski (variously spelled Lubieniecki, Lubienetz, Lubienitzky, etc.) contended that their appearance portended good events as often as evil ones.  Many of the illustrious scientists & notables of the day attemted observation of the comets, including a young Isaac Newton who wrote in his notebook: a Comet whose rays were round her, yet her tayle extended it selfe a little towards east.

References: Exposition Ciel et Terre, Bibliothèque Nationale Paris, 2003

The prints are ORIGINAL copper engravings from 1666-1668 that have been beautifully hand colored by one of the few remaining professional colorists in England.  Each print measures approximately 12 1/2 inches wide by 7 3/4 inches long.  The condition of the plates is excellent, with the paper being a fine, watermarked chain lined type in a creamy white. There are no fox marks or other blemishes. There is no title page or text.

We accept Mastercard, Visa & American Express credit cards, PayPal, and money orders. Washington state residents pay Washington state sales tax. Shipping for this item to U.S. addresses is $9.95. Items can be combined to save on postage. Our environment is smoke free. You may return any item within 7 days if not satisfied. To order, you may call us toll free at 1-888-PANTEEK (726-8335), fax or email. We pack professionally using only new materials.