Set of 19th Century educational celestial maps and accompanying guide booklet by celebrated chart maker John William Norie.



This handsome set was produced as a teaching aid for the study of astronomy. One of the folding charts focuses on the twelve constellations that follow the ecliptic - these are known as the 'Zodiacal constellations' and they make up the names of the zodiac; Aquarius, Pisces, Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpius, Sagittarius, and Capricornus. The other folding map features four hemispheres, two north and two south, each showing the positions of the stars and the milky way as one would see them in the skies, each with a key to their magnitudes. The accompanying booklet acts as a guide informing the reader how to use the charts - both in the practice of stargazing, and for navigation.



John William Norie (1772-1843) was an esteemed London-based mathematician, author, hydrographer, and publisher and is regarded as one of the most important figures in marine cartography and navigation books during the 19th Century.



He began his career apprenticed to legendary sea chart-maker, William Heather (c.1765-1812). When Heather died, Norie took over his premises in Leadenhall Street and began trading as "J. W. Norie Ltd."


These celestial charts, first published in 1825, are published under the imprint of Charles Wilson (1807-1882) just one year after Norie's death. Wilson and Norie were business partners shortly after Norie acquired Heather's company and worked together between 1813 until 1840 trading as "Norie and Wilson". Later, the company merged with their contemporaries James Imray & Son. Their imprint survives today as "Imray, Laurie, Norie and Wilson Ltd".



Norie's most recognised work, titled "A Complete Epitome of Practical Navigation", is advertised on the label of the slipcase for this set of charts.

Folded. [CELEST1049]