About This Image

The image, with arched top mounted on period paper with manuscript title 'Capt. Nobel F.R.A.S.' to the base of the image, depicting a seated gentleman next to Astronomical Transit Telescope. In modern card mount, although unsigned image is similar in size and composition to the other image we are offering by Maull & Polyblank, and they were acquired together.

Captain William Noble (1828-1904), was a prominent figure in the world of astronomy. Born in Berwick-on-Tweed in November 27, 1828, Noble's journey from a military career in the Rifle Brigade, where he achieved the rank of captain, to his pivotal role in the nascent British Astronomical Association, reflects a life dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge and the advancement of amateur astronomy.

Noble's entrance into the astronomical arena was marked by his foundational contributions to the British Astronomical Association, an organization he helped found and later led as its first president. His leadership was characterized by a deep-seated commitment to fostering amateur interest in astronomy and promoting the association's mission of scientific inquiry. His tenure as president was marked by regular attendance at meetings and a steadfast dedication to the association's success.

Beyond his role in the British Astronomical Association, Noble's influence extended to the Royal Astronomical Society, where he served as a Fellow and a member of the council for several years. His advocacy for the independence of scientific research from government interference, as well as his vocal opposition to perceived corruption or self-interest in scientific matters, underscored his commitment to the integrity of the scientific endeavor.

Noble, along with Arthur Cowper Ranyard, was involved with the controversial theory by John Brett, the Pre-Raphaelite painter and amateur astronomer, who presented his theory of specular reflection in Venus to the Royal Astronomical Society. In the process Brett provoked a controversy over both the constitution of the planet and the learned society. For Noble, Brett’s theory that the ‘planet Venus is like a polished globe of quicksilver, surrounded by a shell of glass’ was inherently ridiculous: ‘It may of course be possible that Venus is a huge thermometer bulb in the heavens’, he suggested, ‘but we shall require a great deal of evidence to believe such a theory’.

Noble wasn't afraid of controversies, as his obituary in The Observatory of 1904 mentions: "Each fortnight, for many years past, a long letter has appeared in the English Mechanic over the signature "A Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society", which it is an open secret was a pseudonym for Capt. Noble, often containing criticisms of the Kensington Science Department, almost libellous, but those who knew the writer were aware that 'his bark was worse than his bite'".

Noble's contributions to astronomical literature further cemented his legacy. His writings, including a popular work titled "Hours with a 3-in. Telescope," and a prolific series of articles in the "English Mechanic," under the pseudonym "A Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society," served to disseminate knowledge and inspire a new generation of amateur astronomers. His clear and engaging writing style, coupled with his depth of knowledge and unwavering dedication to the pursuit of truth, made him a respected authority in the field.

Despite facing personal tragedies, including the loss of two sons and his wife, Emily Charlotte, Noble remained resolute in his pursuit of scientific inquiry. His enduring optimism and boundless enthusiasm for astronomy reportedly endeared him to colleagues and amateurs alike.

Most U.S. domestic Fed Ex ground shipping (Media Mail for books) will be a flat $25 charge except for larger and heavier items, or unless the buyer wants express shipping (email us your requests for the latter). International shipping and insurance costs will be added to the price and must be paid for by the buyer. Pennsylvania buyers must pay appropriate local sales tax. International clients are responsible for their local customs duties and taxes, which will be charged by Fed Ex, which will contact the client prior to delivery.