Tycho Brahe - the most expensive book writer in Denmark

First "De Nova Stella" edition by Tycho Brahe, dedicated to a new star opening, was sold in Bruun Rasmussen auction’s anniversary. This event became an important part of Denmark’s history.

 

Since the book published in 1537 was auctioned off at the highest price 4.1 mln Danish krone, it became the most expensive book sold in Denmark ever.

In spite of the fact the book consisted just of 54 sheets and 6 gravings, looks homely, you shouldn’t judge by its cover!

"De Nova et Nullius" by Danish astronomer plays a big role in the world history and scientific history as well. 

The book became a foundation for Tycho Brahe worldwide fame and made a big stir in astronomy.

On 11 November 1572, Tycho observed a very bright star, now named Stella Nova, which had unexpectedly appeared in the constellation Cassiopeia. In his words : “It was the greatest miracle since the world creation ever”. Actually, it was so called “The stella supernova”, in other words, the old star flash.
   
Tycho Brahe measured the distance from the new star to the nearest fixed star and found out it was losing its lustre.

So he proved, the star located much farther from the Earth and the Moon and couldn’t be an atmospheric phenomenon must be ranked with the fixed stars.

Before, "De Novella Stella" cost from 400 to 600 Danish krone.

The last record of the most expensive book, was set in 2004. Then the illustrated book by Pablo Picasso consisted of his dedications was auctioned off in Bruun Rasmussen auction as well. Its cost 2 mln Danish krone.

 

Translated by Olga Kolosova

 

Original text, photo:  DR.dk