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The Stuart and Mimi Rose Collection /

Nicolaus Copernicus

Item 13C

De Revolutionibus Orbium Coelestium

1543
First Edition

In 1543, this book presented a new approach to knowledge—and nothing was the same after it appeared. Copernicus was the first to propose a heliocentric theory of the cosmos, which describes the sun standing still and the earth revolving around it. In doing so, he set in motion one of the greatest ever shifts in the history of human thought.

A sepia-toned illustration from Nicolaus Copernicus' 1543 book
An open ancient book showing a page with Latin text and a geometrical diagram consisting of several intersecting lines, angles, and a circle. The paper appears aged, with a yellowish tint and slight wear. The edges of the book are also visibly worn.
Close-up of an old astronomical table by Nicolaus Copernicus displaying the latitudes of Venus and Mercury. The table is written in Latin, with rows and columns showing various data including degrees, minutes, and seconds. The text is printed on yellowed, aged paper.

What will you discover next?

Andreas Vesalius Fabrica
Detail from an anatomical illustration from an old medical book shows a human figure stripped of skin, exposing muscles and tendons. The figure is in a dynamic pose with one arm raised and the other bent.

Another great work of scientific discovery?

Go To Item 2C

William Harvey De Motu Cordis
An open vintage medical book displays illustrations of forearms gripping sticks, showcasing veins and arteries with illustrations of hands. There are also annotations. The paper is faded, aged, and sepia-toned paper.

Another kind of circulation—inside the body

Go To Item 3A

Return to the Rose Collection
A vibrant, symmetrical collage features historical black-and-white photographs of three individuals encircled with colorful floral patterns. The background is filled with intricate designs of butterflies and geometric shapes in shades of teal, coral, and beige.

Return to the Rose Collection

Visit the Folger to see this object on exhibit