James Reynolds

Attractive mid-19th Century educational chart explaining the phenomena of comets and meteors ("fireballs").


James Reynolds (1817-1876) was an innovative English publisher. Born in London, the son of a printer, Reynold's had started his career and set up his premises at 174 Strand by the 1830s.

During his career he published books, atlases, maps and scientific educational charts on a wide range of topics - from physical geography and geology to astronomy, architecture, ethnography and even pre-historic history.



Of particular note are his educational charts, most of which were published between 1846 and 1851. They were inexpensive, accessible to a wide audience, published a large numbers and very beautiful. The charts all feature striking, colourful illustrations with explanatory notes.



Reynolds took a great deal of care in making sure his charts were accurate and attractive. He employed experts, such as geographer Ernest George Ravenstein (1834-1913) and geologist Professor John Morris (1810-1886), to advise on accuracy and comprehension, and he also worked closely with the talented engraver and artist John Emslie (1813-1875) to produce his eye-catching designs.

Original hand colour. [CELEST925]