Tian Wen Tu Shuo 天文圖說 [Illustrated Astronomy]

7 color plates, one folding. 4 juan in one volume. Tall 8vo (28x16.5cm), orig wrappers and sticking (some loose). 益智書會(Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge in China), 光緒九年新鐫, 1883

Translated by Nathan Sites (薛承恩) and Caleb Cook Baldwin (摩嘉立), American missionaries based in Fuzhou.

Tianwen tushuo 天文圖說 (Illustrated Astronomy) is the first comprehensive Chinese work to introduce and translate the Western constellations in detail. Drawing upon contemporary Western astronomical knowledge, Tianwen tushuo presents the structure of the solar system, celestial mechanics, and the latest astronomical discoveries of the late nineteenth century in accessible Easy Wenli Chinese.

Illustrated with seven finely color plates, including depictions of star charts and planetary systems, the work played a pivotal role in disseminating modern astronomy in late Qing China. Produced under the auspices of missionary translators Nathan Sites and Caleb Cook Baldwin, this publication exemplifies the broader effort of the Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge in China (益智書會) to popularize Western science and rational inquiry among Chinese readers.

Original wrappers worn and soiled; some damp staining with mild waviness to the text block; corners slightly curled. Overall in fair condition.

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