Cellarius Andreas A pair of 18th century watercolor star maps

The graphic comes from Harmonia Macrocosmica, an atlas of the stars from the Dutch Golden Age of cartography, depicting the structure of the sky across twenty-nine extraordinary double-page plates, published in Amsterdam in 1708 by Gerard Valk and Petrus Schenk. The magnificent celestial maps contained in this astronomical work illustrate the movement of the Sun, planets, and constellations, offering more of a historical overview of various cosmological theories advocated by Ptolemy, Copernicus, and Tycho Brahe than new scientific discoveries. The beauty of the design and richness of detail place it at the top of artistic cartography.

Each sheet measures 44 x 53 cm and is framed in a gilded wooden frame.

The first is a geocentric map of the sky based on observations by the Greek poet Aratus, the second presents the model of the universe by Danish astronomer Tycho Brahe.

As a compromise between Ptolemaic and Copernican models, Danish astronomer Tycho Brahe proposed a model of the universe with Earth at the center and the Sun and Moon orbiting around Earth, while the other planets orbit the Sun. Four moons of Jupiter are depicted, and zodiac signs are shown around the map. The map features a portrait of Tycho Brahe in the lower right corner.

This pair of antique graphics with contemporary coloring comes from a private collection in Milan and, considering their age, is in good condition. On the underside of one of the two cuts, minimal scabbing and two small holes are visible.

Original antique furniture and accessories can be an excellent idea for decorating our interiors. Today, there is a growing number of enthusiasts for high-quality vintage items that have a specific character and soul. It’s a nod to history, craftsmanship, and the design of traditional and timeless furniture. There are many different styles in antique furniture, each with its distinctive features.

Many styles characterize antique furniture, but a few are particularly notable. Eclectic furniture refers to the 19th century, marked by the prevailing Biedermeier style. Its early variations include neo-Gothic, Gothic, Rococo, Louis-Philippe style, and finally the Victorian style. Toward the end of the century, these styles transition into pseudo-classicism, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.

Original Empire-style furniture dates from the late 18th to early 19th century, originating from Napoleon’s reign. It features significant similarities and references to Roman and Greek ornamentation.

Neoclassical furniture, such as Louis XVI style, also strongly references ancient architecture. Antique products in Rococo and Louis XV styles are also interesting and noteworthy. Baroque, whose name derives from the Portuguese 'barocco'—meaning an irregularly developed pearl—was highly ornate furniture designed to exude splendor and play a significant role in luxury. Unique, selectively used materials were employed to further emphasize the grandeur of these pieces.

Today, we can observe how much the Baroque style influenced modern classical furniture, which is designed with a strong resemblance to the past. An important style is also Renaissance, which flourished in the 15th and 16th centuries and left a significant mark on furniture-making art. Renaissance furniture was quite heavy and massive, using brown stains, moldings, strong bases, and bas-reliefs. These products were quite distinctive but also introduced new possibilities, such as the construction of sideboards and broadly speaking, chest furniture. Mythology and ancient times also inspired these designs, with supports and legs often taking animal forms.

Lion paws, eagle heads—these are common motifs in Renaissance style. Currently, many global brands reproduce such furniture, drawing inspiration from Italian and French creators. This reflects admiration and respect for the history of the most beautiful Renaissance antiques. It’s important to remember that furniture production was perceived differently in each country, so each style had its own character. This is especially important when searching for a luxurious antique that suits your interior.