Catalog Archive
Auction 175, Lot 35

Stunning French Armillary Sphere

"[Armillary Sphere]", Delamarche, Charles Francois

Subject: Armillary Sphere

Period: 1805 (circa)

Publication:

Color: Hand Color

Size:
13 x 18 inches
33 x 45.7 cm
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This French armillary sphere is depicted on the Ptolemaic model with the earth at its center. The 2" miniature terrestrial globe entitled Globe Terrestre, consisting of 24 tiny gores, is flanked by two small metal discs representing the sun and moon that orbit by rotating brass arms. Cartographically, North America is well developed with a relatively accurate depiction of Alaska, while Australia is still shown with Tasmania connected to the mainland. Surrounding the earth is a larger rotating universal sphere containing the Ecliptic with the 12 constellations of the zodiac, celestial equator, and additional rings representing both the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn, as well as the Arctic and Antarctic Circles. The circa date is based upon the publisher's imprint on the globe, indicating Delamarche's address at Rue du Jardinet No. 13, which he occupied from 1805-07. The sphere is constructed of wood and paper and sits on top of an ebonized stand.

References:

Condition: B+

The engraved paper rings surrounding the globe are very good with light soiling and a few minor repaired tears on the horizon ring. The globe gores are also very good with some toning of the varnish as is normally seen. There are a couple of minor chips to the red paint on the rings, and the wooden base has some minor surface scratches and small stains. An overall very attractive example.

Estimate: $4,000 - $5,000

Sold for: $6,000

Closed on 11/13/2019

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