This small illuminated glass globe from celebrated French maker, J. Forest, has an impact far beyond its diminutive size. The cartography displays the iconic styling that mid century French globes have become famous for. They developed the perfect blend of color, detail, text, and information.

The presence of Israel (1948), Vietnam (1953), Sudan (1956), and Ghana (1957) all help focus in on the age. The fact that Egypt is still shown in place of the short lived United Arab Republic (1958-61) cements the date as 1957. It was an era of rapidly shifting political landscapes in Africa and Southeast Asia as the Age of Colonialism drew to a close.

Description:

The 6 inch diameter orb consists of 12 individual, hand applied paper gores over a glass orb. Delicately engraved map details include ocean currents, mountain ranges, rivers and more. All text is in French. The cartouche in the Pacific Ocean reads: GLOBE TERRESTRE - 1-80,000,000 - Dresse par J. FOREST - Géographe - GIRARD BARRÈRE et THOMAS Editeurs - 17, rue de Buci - PARIS. Mounted onto an simplified wooden base that features an electric calendar and switch for the light. The globe stands roughly 10 inches tall.

Condition:

Well preserved artifact, details are crisp and colors rich. Minimal scuffing though there is one area near the Arctic Circle as can been seen in the photos. No holes in the map. Base is also well preserved, however, I have not been able to get the calendar to function properly. It is wired for an American outlet. Professionally cleaned and waxed. Globe will ship for $19 domestically and $38 internationally to most countries. $185 - Item # 1117JFOREST57