Clavis Cælestis: A Synopsis of the Universe

Digital edition of Thomas Wright’s 1742 astronomical treatise

This project is a recreation of English astronomer Thomas Wright’s lesser-known astronomical treatise covering solar system theories, planets’ orbits, refraction, the seasons, the laws of motion, and more.

Accompanying his treatise were several large and intricately-detailed sheets printed from engravings he made illustrating figures he described. When combined they formed an impressive portrait of all the topics covered. For the first time in more than 280 years, these figures have been carefully recreated and paired with their accompanying text in a new digital edition. New posters based on his sheets are available in antique style or more contemporary modern colors.

Explore Posters How it was made

Home page

Treatise navigation

Collage of screenshots

Posters

Closeup of poster

Closeup of poster