Catalog Archive
Auction 167, Lot 30

The Whole World in Your Hands

"[2" Miniature Globe] Newtons New & Improved Terrestrial Globe Containing the Latest Dist.", Newton, J. & Sons

Subject: Miniature Globe

Period: 1833 (circa)

Publication:

Color: Hand Color

Size:
8 x 4.5 inches
20.3 x 11.4 cm
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The amount of cartographic detail on this pocket globe is remarkable. It is composed of 12 copper engraved and hand colored gores with metal pinions at the poles. The globe is dated circa 1833 as both Enderby Land (1831) and Graham Land (1832) are located along the coast of Antarctica. In North America, Mexico is control of the Southwest and Texas, and the border with Canada is correct to present-day. In the oceans, the tracks of Captain Cook and other navigators are prominently shown. The title cartouche occupies the northern Pacific Ocean, which indicates the globe was published in London. The globe nestles in an attractive, later mahogany case.

John Newton started producing globes in the 1780s, and was joined by various family members throughout the early 19th century. The firm made globes in ten different sizes, ranging from 1" up to 25" in diameter. The firm carried on for several generations after Newton's death in 1844.

References:

Condition: B+

The globe gores are near fine with only a few tiny nicks along the equator. There are occasional small abrasions that have removed the original varnish, but the gores are intact. The top half of the housing case has a 0.75" by 0.75" chip where it meets the lower half. The bottom supporting post is chipped along the edges but still easily stands upright.

Estimate: $3,500 - $4,500

Sold for: $2,500

Closed on 3/28/2018

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