Johannes Kepler, 1606

KEPLER, Johannes (1571-1630). De stella nova in pede serpentarii. Prague: Paul Sessius, 1606.

First edition of Kepler's description of the supernova of 1604, now called Kepler's Star. Supernova SN 1604 appeared in the constellation Ophiucus (the "serpent bearer") and was visible from October 1604 to October 1605. Partially modeled on Tycho's account of the supernova of 1572, which helped to prove the existence of superlunary celestial objects, this treatise combines Kepler's own careful observations of the “new star” with those of other scientists. It was another nail in the coffin of the rapidly-crumbling Aristotelian cosmos. Two variants of the title-page are recorded, this one with the imprint: "Ex Officina calcagraphica Pauli Sessii." No definitive priority has been established, but Caspar suggests, based on Kepler's correspondence that this issue is the first. Caspar 27; Cinti 17; Houzeau & Lancaster 2843.

Four parts in one volume, quarto (201 x 158mm). Three separate title-pages, woodcut device on general title, one double-page engraved plate, woodcut diagrams, (heavily washed, pressed, first two leaves restored and with old stains costing about 6 letters, closed tear to G1 partially repaired, small burnholes to O1 and T1, holes touching letters on T3, last several gatherings browned and with a few marginal repairs, last two text leaves trimmed at outer margin, without final blank). Modern vellum, spine gilt.