Rare Old Star Map of Aquila by Johann Bayer, 1603 - Celestial Constellation Chart

Introducing the exquisite "Old Star Map of Aquila" by Johann Bayer, originally created in 1603. This meticulously handcoloured old star chart is a marvel from Bayer's renowned Uranometria atlas. It features early hand-written notes in the margins, denoting the neighboring constellations, adding a layer of historical authenticity and intrigue.

We are offering an exceptionally high-quality fine art print, restored and prepared by The Unique Maps Co. You can personalize and customize this remarkable piece to make the artwork truly unique. Our prints are crafted on premium archival matte paper, ensuring durability and longevity for decades to come.

Johann Bayer was a pivotal figure in the history of astronomy, famed for his groundbreaking Uranometria, which premiered the first comprehensive star atlas with 51 star charts, including 48 Ptolemaic constellations. This atlas introduced a new stellar nomenclature system, using Greek letters to identify brighter stars—a system still in use today. The "Aquila" chart in particular is an exemplary demonstration of Bayer's innovative work, as it utilizes Tycho Brahe's detailed star positions from the late 16th century.

The Constellation Aquila represents the eagle associated with Zeus in Greek mythology, poignantly illustrated with fine details and meticulous engravings. The print's coloration enhances the intricate depiction, with the Greek mythological tales adding depth and storytelling to the celestial imagery. Having this artwork on your wall connects you to a piece of astronomical history, making it a celebrated addition for both history aficionados and astronomy enthusiasts.

This fine art print of the "Old Star Map of Aquila" by Johann Bayer would make a wonderful gift for birthdays, Christmas, Father’s Day, housewarmings, or work leaving celebrations. It’s a perfect choice for someone with a refined taste in art and a deep appreciation for the world of astronomy.

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.

My standard frame is a gallery style black ash hardwood frame. It is simple and quite modern looking. My standard frame is around 20mm (0.8in) wide.

I use super-clear acrylic (perspex/acrylite) for the frame glass. It's lighter and safer than glass - and it looks better, as the reflectivity is lower.

Six standard frame colours are available for free (black, dark brown, dark grey, oak, white and antique gold). Custom framing and mounting/matting is available if you're looking for something else.

Most maps are also available as a framed canvas. The map is printed on matte (not shiny) canvas, stretched over a box frame, and then 'floated' within a simple wood frame. The end result is quite beautiful, and there's no glazing in front of your map.

All frames are provided "ready to hang", with either a string or brackets on the back. Very large frames will have heavy duty hanging plates and/or a mounting baton. If you have any questions, please get in touch.

See some examples of my framed maps and framed canvas maps.

Alternatively, I can also supply old maps on canvas, foam board, cotton rag and other materials.

If you want to frame your map yourself, please read my map size guide first.

For most orders, delivery time is about 3 working days. Personalised and custom made maps take longer, as I have to do the personalisation and send it to you for approval, which usually takes a day or two.

Please note that for larger framed orders (over 40in/100cm), and some other framed sizes, the delivery time will be closer to 7-10 days.

If you need your order to arrive by a certain date, please contact me before you order so that we can find the best way of making sure you get your order in time.

I print and frame maps in 22 countries around the world. This means your map will be made locally, which cuts down on delivery time and reduces the chance of your map being damaged during delivery. There won't be any extra taxes or duties to pay, and we'll put less CO2 into the air.

All of my maps are well packaged and sent in a rugged tube if unframed, or surrounded by foam if framed.

I try to send out all maps within 1 or 2 days of receiving your order, though some products (like face masks or mugs) can take longer to make.

If you select Express Delivery at checkout your order we will prioritise your order and send it out by 1-day courier (Fedex, DHL, UPS, Parcelforce).

We can sometimes do next-day delivery if you order before 10am. But usually it's best to contact me first before you order.

Read my full delivery and local production guide