Famous Terrestrial Globes: A Look at the World’s Most Iconic
Terrestrial globes have long been a symbol of exploration and discovery. These spherical representations of our planet have captured the imagination of people throughout history. While there are countless globes in existence, certain ones have achieved fame and recognition for their historical significance, craftsmanship, or cultural impact. In this article, we will explore some of the most famous terrestrial globes that have left a mark on the world.
The Erdapfel Globe: An Ancient Wonder
One of the earliest known terrestrial globes is the Erdapfel Globe, created by Martin Behaim in 1492. This remarkable globe is believed to be the oldest surviving example of a spherical representation of Earth. Made of a single piece of wood and covered in parchment, the Erdapfel Globe depicts the known world at the time of its creation, including Europe, Africa, and Asia. Although it contains inaccuracies, likely due to limited geographical knowledge at the time, it remains an important artifact in the history of cartography.
The Lenox Globe: America’s Oldest Globe
The Lenox Globe, created by an unknown cartographer in the early 16th century, is considered the oldest surviving globe to depict the Americas. This copper globe, measuring only four inches in diameter, shows North and South America as separate continents, a groundbreaking representation for its time. The Lenox Globe is now part of the collection at the New York Public Library and is a significant piece of American history.
The Molyneux Globes: Masterpieces of Craftsmanship
Created by Emery Molyneux, an English globemaker, in the late 16th century, the Molyneux Globes are renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship. The terrestrial globe is made of brass and is adorned with intricate engravings and hand-painted details. Molyneux’s globes were highly accurate for their time, and he was one of the first to include the newly discovered continent of Australia on his maps. Today, the Molyneux Globes are considered masterpieces, with the terrestrial globe residing in the collections of the British Museum.
The Van der Grinten Globe: A Modern Icon
The Van der Grinten Globe, created by Dutch cartographer Alphons-Joseph Van der Grinten in the 20th century, is a modern icon in the world of terrestrial globes. It is known for its unique projection, the Van der Grinten projection, which minimizes distortion in both shape and size. The terrestrial globe has a sleek design, with clean lines and vibrant colors, making it a favorite among globophiles and design enthusiasts alike. The Van der Grinten Globe can be found in many geography classrooms and libraries around the world, serving as a teaching tool and a symbol of global interconnectedness.
