Old Star Map of Delphinus by Johann Bayer, 1603 – Celestial Constellation Chart
“Delphinus,” masterfully created by Johann Bayer in 1603, is a remarkable handcoloured old star chart. This striking celestial chart of Delphinus, the dolphin constellation, is notable for its rich hand-colouring and stars heightened in gold. Nestled in the northern sky near the celestial equator, Delphinus has been recognized since the 2nd century by astronomer Ptolemy and remains one of the 88 modern constellations acknowledged today by the International Astronomical Union.
Offered here is an exceptionally high-quality fine art print, restored and prepared by The Unique Maps Co. Our prints are handcrafted on gorgeously thick archival matte paper that will not fade or wrinkle for decades. You also have the option to personalize and customize the artwork to make it uniquely yours.
Johann Bayer was a pioneering German astronomer known for his influential star atlas, Uranometria. Published in 1603, this was the first modern star atlas and introduced a new stellar nomenclature system using Greek and Roman letters to denote the brightness of stars—a convention still used today. Bayer’s charts were derived from the work of Jacobo de Gheyn and meticulously engraved with grids to pinpoint star locations.
Delphinus stands out for its meticulous detail and historical significance, featuring stars painstakingly marked with Greek letters denoting brightness. Bayer’s innovative approach not only standardized the practice of astronomy but also ensured his works’ enduring legacy in scientific and artistic communities alike. This chart showcases the constellation bordered by mythical figures such as Pegasus and Aquila, making it both an aesthetically pleasing and intellectually stimulating piece.
This finely crafted art print would make a wonderful Christmas, Father’s Day, Mother’s Day, housewarming, or work-leaving gift for anyone with impeccable taste in art or an interest in astronomy. It’s a timeless piece that will undoubtedly enhance any space with its blend of historical significance and artistic beauty.
If you’re not sure what size to order, or you’re looking for a custom order of some kind – a different size, a different colour, a special frame – then please contact me. I usually respond within a few minutes.
You can see an example of my fine art personalisation service in the fifth image. Zoom in and take a look. My personalised artwork is always very well received. Take a look at more examples of personalisation.
You can also choose to age your art print to make it look older. This is popular amongst my customers who want their artwork to look like an older, antique print. You can see an example of ageing in the sixth product image, or go ahead and check out lots of examples of other aged artwork.
The model in the listing images is holding the 18x24in (45x60cm) version of this art print.
I can print and frame this beautiful piece of art at sizes up to 3 metres (10ft). If you are looking for a size or framing option that isn’t available online, please get in touch.
This artwork is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. My standard frames come in six colours (black, dark brown, dark grey, antique gold, oak and white), and custom framing is available for an additional charge. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.
