Description

A large terrestrial globe, 50 cm in diameter, bearing the inscription: “Globe terrestre 1m 60c circonférence par Ch. Larochette et L. Bonnefont… Médailles d’argent aux principales expositions. Edition Naud-Evrard. Institut géographique de Paris Ch. Delagrave” (Terrestrial globe, 1.60m circumference, by Ch. Larochette and L. Bonnefont… Silver medals at major exhibitions. Naud-Evrard Edition. Institut Géographique de Paris, Ch. Delagrave).

The large 50 cm globe is mounted within a brass ring graduated in four 90-degree quadrants, topped by a copper hour dial marked with two 12-hour cycles; the assembly rests on a brass table—also graduated in four 90-degree quadrants—supported by three steel arcs. The entire structure stands on a sturdy turned-wood base.

The globe measures approximately 90 cm in height and 58 cm in diameter.

In 1867, Charles Larochette and Louis Bonnefont created a large globe (50 cm in diameter) intended for educational use; selected to showcase the quality of French geographical production, it was awarded a medal at the Paris Universal Exhibition.

Smaller versions were subsequently produced and distributed throughout France, often for educational purposes.

This particular globe is therefore one of the largest models manufactured at the time.

There is an old break along the equator that has been restored without any loss of material; while there are some signs of wear—particularly over the Asian continent—the globe is otherwise in good, attractive condition and is a relatively rare piece.