How do I date a brass desk globe?

Examine the political boundaries and place names printed on the paper gores, as these often reflect the specific era of manufacture. Makers frequently included publication dates near the cartouche, though mounts and wooden stands from periods like the Victorian or Edwardian eras provide further stylistic clues.

What sizes do these globes come in?

The selection ranges from small four-inch miniature German globes designed for compact spaces up to larger twelve-inch and eighteen-inch table globes. Desk globes vary in height depending on whether they sit on a simple brass foot, a walnut base, or a full meridian ring.

How should I clean a paper globe?

Paper gores are sensitive to moisture, so cleaning should be limited to very gentle dusting with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using water, chemical sprays, or abrasive cleaners, as these will damage the historic paper and dissolve the printed ink.