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An astrological chart, 1646. Artist: Athanasius Kircher
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An astrological chart, 1646. Artist: Athanasius Kircher
An astrological chart, 1646. A man with his internal organs revealed standing in front of a circular chart. One hand has been replaced by a sun, the other hand is chained to a hand emerging from the sky. The months of the year and the zodiac signs are listed either side of the man. Plate taken from Ars Magna Lucis Et Umbrae by Athanasius Kircher. Kircher demonstrated that by placing a lens between a screen and a mirror which had been written on, a sharp but inverted image of the text would appear on the screen. By using a spherical water-filled flask as a condenser to concentrate the light, Kircher found that texts painted on the mirrors surface could be projected by light from a candle after dark. These demonstrations eventually resulted in the birth of the magic lantern
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Media ID 14863455
© Oxford Science Archive / Heritage-Images
Anatomy Astrology Athanasius Athanasius Kircher Athanasius Kirchner Calendar Chart Dissection Human Body Kircher Kirchner Athanasius Month Oxford Science Archive Zodiac
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This print showcases an astrological chart created by the talented artist Athanasius Kircher in 1646. The intricate artwork depicts a man standing proudly, with his internal organs revealed, positioned in front of a mesmerizing circular chart. One hand of the man has been replaced by a radiant sun symbol, while the other is chained to a celestial hand emerging from the sky above. Surrounding him are the months of the year and zodiac signs, providing insight into the cosmic influences on human existence. Kircher's groundbreaking work extended beyond artistry; he delved into scientific exploration as well. In his renowned publication Ars Magna Lucis Et Umbrae, Kircher demonstrated innovative techniques involving lenses and mirrors to project sharp but inverted images onto screens. By using water-filled flasks as condensers to concentrate light, he discovered that texts painted on mirrors could be projected through candlelight during nighttime hours. This remarkable discovery eventually led to advancements in visual storytelling and entertainment with the birth of magic lanterns. This particular print serves as a testament to Kircher's multifaceted genius – blending artistry, science, astrology, and anatomy seamlessly within one composition. With its monochrome aesthetic and meticulous attention to detail characteristic of 17th-century craftsmanship, this image from Heritage Images offers viewers an intriguing glimpse into both historical astrology practices and Kircher's pioneering contributions to various fields of study.
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