This artifact is a true testament to the lost art of map making skills. Continents, Empires, rivers, mountains, currents and other details are ever so delicately engraved, printed and hand colored. Achievement of Human advancement in 18th and 19th century exploration and technology are well documented, including the sea routes and dates of Captain James Cook, Vancouver, Perouse (1785) and more. The recently completed Suez Canal, the achievement of a century in human advancement, is clearly identified (1869).Wilkes discovery march of Antarctica is also noted. In Europe, Empires are well established. The Austro Hungarian, Prussian, British, Ottoman and Russian Empire are visible as are their global reach of imperial colonies are well documented. Their battles over territory is especially well seen in Africa. Rhodesia has not yet been established (1895) as various Armies are battling over the territory. Van Diemen land is also identified in its new name, Tasmania. South America is still awaiting to be formed, with a Confederate Argentine present. The United States of Columbia is visible, showing Panama to be a region within rather than an independent country (1903). The USA is still forming its individual states, with a newly divided Dakota. Indian Territory has been marked as well (1890). The creation of Yellowstone National Park documents the new awareness of natural preservation. On a rather humorous note, El Paso is identified to be on the Mexican side of the Rio Grande, not the USA. Active from the 1850s -90s, Franklin Globes may have been produced among a variety of publishers but all including this HB Nims piece remained true to its superb and ever so delicate refined maps. No wonder this is one of the most desirable spheres among globe and map aficionados. The 12inch diameter orb is covered by twelve, hand applied paper gores representing the ever so detailed map. Various details are hand colored in green. The dowel style mount and metal base offers a beautiful simplistic look. With a total height of 18 inches, this model is an attractive desk top globe. Overall the sphere is well preserved. Details are crisp, colors rich and warm. Some water stain marks visible to the Southern Hemisphere, some loose paper (no loss)around the Southern axis. More photos are available. An overall exceptionally handsome piece of history. This fine artifact will ship well packed in two boxes. Domestic shipping is $24.00, international $72.00. $1,099 - Item #: FZ713NIMS91