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Category: History of Science

Image of a dragon within concentric circles printed with numbers.

Dragons in the Astronomicum Caesareum

Posted by: Marianna Stell

In 1540, humanist polymath, mathematician, astronomer, and cartographer, professor, and printer, Peter Apian (1495-1552) published one of the most lavishly illustrated scientific books ever printed. Dedicated to German Emperor Charles V and Ferdinand I, King of Bohemia, the Astronomicum Caesareum (Imperial Astronomy) contains 21 volvelles and 58 hand-colored woodcuts that involve some of the most spectacular dragons in the Rare Book and Special Collections Division.

Posted in: 16th Century, Astronomy, Famous Printers, History of Mathematics, History of Science, History of the Book, Illustrated Book

Painted miniature of Salvator Mundi.

Bound to be Beautiful: the Warburg Book of Hours on Exhibit

Posted by: Marianna Stell

A tiny masterpiece of Flemish illumination, the Warburg Book of Hours in the Rare Book and Special Collections Division recently received a new binding that allows readers to better view some of most beautiful paintings and trompe-l'œil manuscript borders in the Library’s collection.

Posted in: 15th Century, 16th Century, History of Science, Illuminated Manuscript, Illustrated Book, News and Events