As mankind moved from the Dark Ages into the Age of Reason, some adventuresome folks explored the earth while others explored the night skies. Maps of Earth and Heavens were created, some of which did not necessarily conform to the accepted philosophical views, but nonetheless provided the foundation for modern thought and understanding. One of these models, the armillary sphere, is a model of the cosmos as it was perceived before the 1600's. The term "armillary" is derived from the Greek term "armilla" meaning "bracelets or rings". The rings represent the movements of known celestial objects in relationship to the central sphere. The central sphere was really the point of controversy and contention - was the earth the center of the universe, and if not, what was? Numerous variations were constructed depending on the prevailing philosophical theory of the time. For example, Ptolmey's sphere, created around 130 AD, displayed the earth as the center and, despite its scientific and astronomical incorrectness, it was the one generally used to illustrate the movement of the solar system. Conversely, Copernicus in the early 1500's refuted the accepted medieval geocentric premise with his hypothesis that the sun was the center of the universe. These armillary spheres became extremely complicated astronomical instruments used for instruction and calculation of movement of celestial objects and events. The entire arrangement revolved with of rings representing the firmament, meridian, zodiac (eclicpic of the sun) horizon, meridian rings divided by degrees, the celestial equator, and other circles in the sky. As modern thought progressed, eventually the scientific armillary spheres became historical artifacts and the simplified, ornamental armillary sphere was adopted as an art form in the late 1700's. Today most original surviving instruments are in museums while many ornamental spheres from the 1700 to 1800's and modern replicas can be viewed in places such as Hearst Castle. This timeless symbology is still pertinent today as man continues to search the heavens for knowledge of how we relate to the whole universe.
Artistic Info
My armillaries unite the symbology of traditional representations of the ancient universe along with planetary realms not yet discovered which reside only in my imagination. All of my creations are personally handcrafted out of the finest materials. Unlike most modern reproductions which consist of inexpensive wrought iron, my armillary rings are made of either solid brass or copper. All interior rings rotate on an axis similar to the original, antique armillary spheres. Many variations of the central sphere are available from a wide selection of mineral crystals as well as brass, bronze, pewter, and copper. The bases supporting my armillary spheres range from wood to various metals. All bases are individually hand painted and sealed for either display indoors or for exterior display (where it is best as a focal point on a deck or in the garden). I began creating armillary spheres when I realized I could not afford an authentic armillary sphere to grace my personal collection of scientific instruments. I am now a self-taught artisan engrossed in the endless universes which can be created with a mixed media of metal, wood and minerals. Each of my creations are one-of-a-kind, no two are alike unless specially commissioned to be so. The brass or stone planets may not be able to sustain life, but my goal is for my handcrafted armillary spheres to sustain and stimulate your imagination while satisfying your guest for beauty. My planetary visions exist not only in my personal collection but in many private collections and corporate showcases in the United States as well as in Europe.
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Classic Armillary Sphere Reproductions By Mark Chase
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