A rare example of the German Biedermeier design style, a very early 1919 Trade and Traffic Globe (Handels & Verkehrs Globus) by Paul Raeth of Leipzig, Germany.

This early Raeths model is not only very detailed and informative by displaying the Industrial advancement of the Human Race in detail, but also offers an intriguing design style revealing a European social evolution
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. It is believed to have been named for the worthy, bourgeois-minded "Papa Biedermeier," a character published in a satiric Munich magazine.

Biedermeier designs were often elegant in their utilitarian simplicity. Light-colored native fruitwoods were typically used, sometimes with contrasting bands of black lacquer often effectively substituted for the ebony of Empire pieces. The style in its stylized simplicity has been cited as a forerunner of Art Deco, Bauhaus and other modern design movements.
This impressive Globe is a attractive and valuable addition to any collection, based on both political display and design.

The Globe is made of pasteboard, covered with 12 individual hand mounted gores and two polar calottes representing the mapping. All language on the Globe is in German. The legend is very detailed and identifies trade routes based on most to least traveled. The mounting consists of a blond fruitwood base with attractive details. The half meridian is made of stamped brass. Total height of this model is c 26” with a diameter of approx 13”.

Very good condition. Light abrasions and age toning. Light abrasions to varnish on base. Well preserved.

The age of the globe has been identified by the political borders displayed: St Petersburg, British Ostafrica. Christiana, Persia