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Since time immemorial, the nocturnal skies have mesmerized us, and heavenly bodies have inspired the imaginations of artists, poets, and scientists. Featuring paintings, sculpture, drawings, watercolors, prints, as well as plates from books, celestial diagrams, and astronomical photography, this book showcases the superstars of the firmament and the universe beyond in sumptuous illustrations.
Cosmos: The Art and Science of the Universe charts the human love affair with the heavens in art and astronomy in a story based on sound science and insightful art and cultural history. With thrilling and seductive illustrations,
Cosmos recounts in ten lively chapters the fascinating history of the human quest to unlock the mysteries of the universe. Showcasing works of art and new information, interpretations, and amusing anecdotes, this stunning book weaves a rich tapestry of celestial interconnections and our efforts to understand the universe, unveiling the beauty of the cosmos and its compelling story.
About the author
Roberta J. M. Olson is Curator of Drawings Emerita at the New-York Historical Society and Professor Emerita of Art History at Wheaton College, Massachusetts. Her award-winning publications include Cosmos: The Art and Science of the Universe (with Jay M. Pasachoff, Reaktion Books, 2019) and Audubon’s Aviary: The Original Watercolors for 'The Birds of America' (2012).Jay M. Pasachoff was Field Memorial Professor of Astronomy and Director of the Hopkins Observatory at Williams College, Williamstown, Massachusetts and co-author of Cosmos (Reaktion Books, 2019) and The Sun (Reaktion Books, 2017)
Summary
Charts the human love affair with the heavens in both art and science.
