Catalog Archive
Auction 191, Lot 60

Miniature Pocket Globe Based on Herman Moll

"A Correct Globe with the New Discoveries", Anon.

Subject: Globes

Period: 1785 (circa)

Publication:

Color: Hand Color

Size:
3 x 3 inches
7.6 x 7.6 cm
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This scarce and charming pocket globe is approximately 2.8" in diameter and is a re-engraved version of Herman Moll's 1719 pocket globe, A Correct Globe with ye Trade Winds. The globe is housed in a hinged case lined with two sets of 12 celestial gores with the title "A Correct Globe with ye New Constelations of Dr. Halley &c." This is a change from Moll's globe, which attributed the constellations to Hevelius. The globe shows a peninsular California with the northwest coast of North America truncated above it and labeled Parts Unknown, and Alaska appears as an elongated peninsula. The R. Longue stretches from the Mississippi to the Pacific. Captain Cook's track of 1768-71 is depicted, but it is incorrectly dated 1760. In the South Pacific Dimens Land is shown attached to Australia and New Zealand is fully formed with Cooks Str labeled. The Adams family, who were prominent globe and instrument makers active in the 18th century, may have made this globe, as Adams acquired part of Moll's stock in 1755.

Papier-mâché construction over plaster sphere with 12 copper-engraved paper gores, pivot holes at poles, and period varnish. The shagreen-covered case has painted red rims and is secured with a hinge and two hook and eye clasps.

References:

Condition: B

The globe and celestial gores are in contemporary color. The globe is toned and foxed with a few small abrasions and some light cracking in Asia. The globe is slightly too large to let the case close completely, which is likely the result of shrinkage of the case, as is often found with this globe. The celestial gores are heavily toned with a few small chips and a burn mark on one of the half spheres. The exterior of the case has some light wear and rubbing.

Estimate: $3,500 - $4,500

Sold for: $3,750

Closed on 2/8/2023

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