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A representation of the meteor seen at Paddington about 12 minutes before 11 o'clock, on the evening of the 11 February 1850, 1850 (mezzotint)
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A representation of the meteor seen at Paddington about 12 minutes before 11 o'clock, on the evening of the 11 February 1850, 1850 (mezzotint)
7341590 A representation of the meteor seen at Paddington about 12 minutes before 11 o'clock, on the evening of the 11 February 1850, 1850 (mezzotint) by Wyatt, Matthew Cotes (1777-1862); 32.5x45.4 cm; National Maritime Museum, London, UK; (add.info.: Creator: Matthew Cotes Wyatt; Lloyd Brothers & Co; Leggatt, Hayward & Leggatt
A mezzotint representation of a bright, exploding meteor seen over London in 1850. The image is dominated by the dark sky and streaking meteor, with rooftops and clouds just visible. The explosion and sparks of the meteor suggest that it was a bolide. It was drawn by Matthew Cotes Wyatt, who also produced the engraving so that a faithfully graphic exhibition of its appearance might be more generally diffused'. Wyatt was a painter and sculptor, and member of the Wyatt family of architects and sculptors. This meteor was evidently particularly spectacular and was widely reported, including in the Illustrated London News. The Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society record that George Airy, Astronomer Royal, had observed this meteor, and James Glaisher, Second Assistant, published observations of it in the Philosophical Magazine. An inventory of the Royal Observatory, Greenwich, from 1893 records that a copy of this print was displayed on the staircase to the Octagon Room in Flamsteed House.); © National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London
Media ID 38510072
© © National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London / Bridgeman Images
Asteroid Asteroids Comet Comet Star Greenwich Meteor Meteorite Meteorites Meteors Observatory Observatorys Shooting Star
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This stunning mezzotint print captures the awe-inspiring sight of a meteor seen over Paddington on the evening of February 11, 1850. Created by artist Matthew Cotes Wyatt, this representation showcases the bright explosion and sparks of the meteor as it streaks across the dark London sky. The rooftops and clouds in the background add to the dramatic effect, emphasizing the sheer power and beauty of this celestial event.
Wyatt's attention to detail in capturing this moment is evident, with every line and shadow meticulously rendered to convey the intensity of the meteor's appearance. The bolide-like explosion depicted in the print suggests that this particular meteor was a rare and spectacular sight for those lucky enough to witness it.
The significance of this event is further highlighted by its documentation in various publications at the time, including reports from renowned astronomers such as George Airy and James Glaisher. This print not only serves as a visual record of a remarkable astronomical occurrence but also stands as a testament to Wyatt's skill as an artist in faithfully depicting such moments for future generations to appreciate.
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