Object Record
Images
Metadata
Catalog Number |
58.40.01 |
Object Name |
Globe |
Title |
Celestial Globe |
Artist |
Bardin, William |
Place of Origin |
London, England |
Date |
1795-99 |
Description |
Inscribed: "To the Rev. Nevil Maskelyne, D.D., F.R.S., Astronomer Royal, this new British Celestial Globe. Containing the positions of nearly 6000 Stars, Clusters, Nebulae, Planetary Nebulae, etc. correctly computed and laid down for the year 1800 from the latest observations and discoveries by Dr. Maskelyne, Dr. Hershel, the Rev. Mr. Wollaston, etc., etc. is respectfully dedicated by his most obedient hbl servents [sic] Wm. G.M. Bardin." In addition to the usual constellations, the celestial globe includes others in the extreme southern hemisphere named for the air pump, mariner's compass, chemical furnace, sculptor's apparatus, microscope, painter's easel, clock, telescope, and drawing compass. Also affixed with a paper tag, "Sold by W. & S. Jones, Holborn, London." (Robert P. Multhauf, "Catalogue of Instruments and Models," 1961). |
Label |
This celestial globe, sold by the London firm of William and Samuel Jones, was sent to the APS in 1799 along with its terrestrial companion (58.40.02). The globes were a generous but calculated gift aimed at the prospective instrument buyers in the Society's membership. Even as they model the earth and the cosmos, these globes reflect a distinctly British vision of the world, evident in the naming of new constellations and in the dedication to the Astronomer Royal. |
Material |
Wood and paper |
Dimensions |
Dia-18 inches |
Dimension Details |
Ring-stands: 15.25" high |
Credit line |
American Philosophical Society. Gift of the W. & S. Jones Company, 1800. |
Search Terms |
18th century eighteenth century astronomy navigation |