Taurus — Astrological Constellation

This engraving illustrates the constellation Ophiuchus as a bearded figure, draped in yellow and pink, holding a large snake. Near the figure are the small bull of Taurus Poniatowski and a heraldic shield representing the Scutum constellation, all marked with stars and Greek-letter designations for scientific mapping. The print combines classical mythology with 18th-century astronomical cartography.

This image reflects the 18th-century attempt to synthesize the classical Greek celestial tradition with new, ephemeral constellations proposed during the Enlightenment, specifically honoring the Polish King Stanisław August Poniatowski. It demonstrates the transition from mythological star-mapping to standardized observational astronomy.