The massive terrestrial and celestial globes commissioned by Louis XIV in 1681, each measuring 384 centimetres in diameter and weighing approximately two tons, represent the summit of Vincenzo Coronelli's technical output. These spheres, constructed from spindles of bent timber and layered plaster, remain a primary testament to the Venetian monk's influence on seventeenth-century cartography and cosmographical display.
Early Development and Theology
Born in Venice in 1650, Coronelli entered the Conventual Franciscans in 1663 and became a novice two years later. His academic trajectory included studies at the College of Saint Bonaventure in Rome, where he earned a doctorate in theology in 1674. Simultaneously, he developed significant proficiency in Euclidean geometry and astronomy. By 1699, his ecclesiastical career culminated in his appointment as Minister General of the Franciscan order.
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Coronelli established his reputation as a cartographer after creating five-foot terrestrial and celestial globes for Ranuccio II Farnese, the Duke of Parma. This project led to his introduction to Cardinal César d'Estrées, which facilitated his move to Paris. Beyond globe production, he founded the Accademia cosmografica degli Argonauti in Venice in 1684, recognized as the earliest geographical society. He served as the official cosmographer for the Republic of Venice.
Encyclopedic and Published Works
Throughout his life, Coronelli produced an extensive body of work, including one hundred forty distinct publications. His efforts included the multivolume Atlante Veneto, published between 1691 and 1696, and the alphabetically organized Biblioteca Universale Sacro-Profana. His printed legacy further encompasses works such as the 1693 Libro dei Globi and his 1716 publication on ancient and modern Rome. He died in Venice in 1718 at the age of sixty-eight.
Fast facts
- Born: 1650, Venice
- Died: 1718, Venice
- Citizenship: Republic of Venice
- Key Appointment: Minister General of the Conventuals
- Founded: Accademia cosmografica degli Argonauti, 1684
- Primary Works: Coronelli globes; Atlante Veneto
Questions readers ask
Where can Coronelli's globes be seen today?
His globes are held in various international institutions, including the Bibliothèque nationale François Mitterrand in Paris, the British Library in London, the National Library of Austria, and the Ransom Center in Austin.
What subjects did Coronelli study?
He was a polymath with formal training in theology, astronomy, and Euclid, applying these disciplines to geography, cartography, and lexicography.
Achievements
- Recorded as geographer, cartographer and cosmographer
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