A fine example of the German Biedermeier design Style, a circa 1931 Political terrestrial Globe by Paul Raeth of Leipzig, Germany. The Biedermeier name applied to a period of European culture and a style of furniture, decoration, and art originating in Germany early in the 19th century. Biedermeier design offers elegance combined with utilitarian simplicity. Light-colored native fruitwoods were typically used, including the base of this magnificent piece. Note the scalloped details of this base, a testament to the superb woodworking skills of a craftsman. 12 individual, hand applied paper gores over a pasteboard orb document important history of an era long gone. Turkey is still documented as an Empire, what is Istanbul today is shown as the mysterious Constantinople instead. The name change occurred in 1930. Petrograd has changed to Leningrad (1924); however Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania are identified as individual countries. The Russian Empire is still documented instead of USSR. Results of the treaty of Versailles show Southwest Africa as a former German Colony. Interestingly, German East Africa, even though not accurate, still appears to be under German Control. The prolific map making skills of which Raeths was known and respected for are evident throughout the map. Trans-continental trade and traffic routes are not just documented but identify the popularity of each route by size. In addition once can view train and caravan travel routes, under water cable connecting the continents, ocean currents and much more. The orb has a diameter of about 14 inches and is mounted into a brass stamped half meridian. The fruitwood base consist of an elegant baluster turned and scalloped details. Overall well preserved and clean, details are crisp, colors vivid. The base shows a little wear to the finish. Total height of this artifact is 26 inches. This exceptional model offer exquisite beauty and magnificent history. A feast for the eyes and the mind alike. $645 — Item #: 2RATH25 - SOLD