This terrestrial sphere was produced by James Wilson, America's first commercial globe maker. Born in New Hampshire in 1763, he spent much of his adult life as a farmer and blacksmith in nearby Vermont. After seeing a pair of terrestrial and celestial globes at Dartmouth College, he decided to make his own. He set about learning geography from an encyclopedia he purchased for the purpose and learned engraving from an experienced engraver of maps. Around 1810 he had produced his first globe, and by 1818 he and his sons had established an “artificial globe manufactory” in Albany, New York, where they produced globes of three-inch, nine-inch, and thirteen-inch diameters. (Library of Congress) This Artifact is a sophisticated piece of history, documenting our world and a young United States at a time of exploration. Many blank spots of Earth have yet to be discovered. Neither polar region has been conquered by man. Interior areas of several continents still unknown, leading to speculations of what may be found. Russia has still ownership of Alaska as much of the United States has yet to be formed. The Northwest is simply identified as “Missouri Territory” A print date of 1831 is identified on the cartouche. The orb consists of wood, covered with plaster, followed with hand colored individual paper gores representing the map. It is mounted into a brass full meridian, which sits in a wooden cradle style base with baluster turned legs and horizon ring. Diameter of the globe is 13 inches with a total height of about 19 inches. Overall good condition with some Spotting of the map throughout and has been professionally restored, including repair of tears to the map. There are additional pictures available when asked. $17,999 - Item #: MH311W1831 - SOLD