Lunar Planisphere, Flat Light
On loan to The Met
This work of art is currently on loan to the museum.This exquisitely detailed engraving shows the moon as if illuminated by flat, even light—conditions perfectly suited to graphic reproduction. Russell aimed for seamless perfection, believing that while nature offers the wellspring for art, the artist must "correct" it in order to obtain an ideal result. In spite of its seemingly "photographic" realism, the print favors artistry over scientific accuracy, offering a view of the moon as it could never be seen in nature.
Artwork Details
- Title: Lunar Planisphere, Flat Light
- Artist: John Russell (British, Guildford 1745–1806 Hull)
- Date: 1805
- Medium: Engraving
- Dimensions: Plate: 16 3/8 × 16 1/8 in. (41.6 × 41 cm)
Sheet: 19 3/4 × 18 3/4 in. (50.2 × 47.6 cm) - Classification: Engravings
- Credit Line: Yale Center for British Art (B2016.39.1)
- Curatorial Department: Photographs