Gipsmodel van de maankraters Mercator en Campanus, van bovenaf gezien before 1873

This plaster model, created by Scottish engineer and inventor James Nasmyth before 1873, depicts the lunar craters Campanus and Mercator. Nasmyth was a pioneer in the field of astronomy and created detailed models of the moon's surface based on his own observations. This particular piece, now located at the Rijksmuseum, is a testament to his meticulous work and his dedication to understanding the cosmos. The model's accuracy and detail demonstrate the significant role he played in the development of our understanding of the moon. This artwork is a prime example of the intersection of scientific inquiry and artistic expression, capturing the beauty and wonder of celestial objects.