Terrestrial table globe - Räths Politischer Erdglobus –...

Original Vintage German Political Globe – Räths Politischer Erdglobus – Leipzig, East Germany – Circa 1968–1970 Beautiful and authentic vintage political terrestrial globe produced in Leipzig, former East Germany (DDR), dating from the late 1960s. Published by the renowned German cartographic house Paul Räth Nachf. KG, with cartography and printing by VEB Hermann Haack, Gotha/Leipzig, this attractive globe is a fascinating example of Cold War-era geographical education and mid-century European design. History and Cartographic Significance The globe bears its original manufacturer's and cartographic inscriptions, identifying the distinguished specialists responsible for its production: Publisher: Paul Räth Nachf. KG, Leipzig Title: Räths Politischer Erdglobus Cartographers: Prof. Dr. A. Krause and Dr. R. Ogrissek Editor: Dipl.-Ing. V. Gaebler Cartography and printing: VEB Hermann Haack, Gotha/Leipzig Production reference: Gen. Nr. 1008/68 Scale: 1:60,000,000 Country of origin: German Democratic Republic (DDR) The printed production reference suggests a date around 1968, placing this globe in a particularly interesting period of twentieth-century European and international history. Its original German-language political cartography preserves numerous historical geographical names and boundaries that have since disappeared or changed. Among the most interesting are Rhodesia, South West Africa, South Yemen and the former political divisions of the African continent. These historical details make the globe more than a decorative object: it is also an authentic geographical document reflecting the world during the Cold War. Design and Materials The globe features beautifully coloured continents in warm shades of ochre, orange, yellow and green, contrasting with muted blue-green oceans. Its elegant appearance is complemented by a substantial, dark brown, circular Bakelite-style base with a polished finish. The globe is supported by a curved metal cradle, allowing it to rotate and be displayed from different geographical perspectives. The combination of its original colours, dark base and minimalist construction gives the piece a distinctive mid-century character, suitable for both traditional and contemporary interiors. Dimensions Overall height: 30 cm Globe diameter: 21 cm (manufacturer's specification) Approximate measured circumference: 70 cm Base diameter: 14 cm Cartographic scale: 1:60,000,000 Condition Authentic vintage condition, retaining its original patina and historical character. The globe displays visible, widespread age-related surface wear, including small marks, abrasions, areas of colour loss and natural ageing of the printed cartographic surface. The geographical details and original manufacturer's inscriptions remain clearly recognisable. The dark base also displays minor signs of age and use, consistent with its period. The item has intentionally been left in its original condition, without cosmetic restoration, preserving its authenticity and vintage appearance. Please examine all photographs carefully, as they form an integral part of the description. Collectors' Interest An attractive original example of East German cartographic production, combining historical interest with the timeless appeal of mid-century design. Particularly suitable for collectors of vintage globes, historical cartography, Cold War memorabilia, educational instruments and twentieth-century European decorative objects. A charming and historically evocative globe, preserving a colourful geographical portrait of a world that no longer exists.

Estimate:$111.59

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