Terrestrial hand globe by Newton and Son
Maker
Newton and Son
Date1851 - 1857
Object number00045821
NameHand globe
MediumPapier mache, varnish, plaster, metal, wood
DimensionsOverall: 74 x 70 mm, 75.9 g
ClassificationsTools and equipment
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionHand globe by Newton & Son, London made between 1851 and 1857. At just 70 mm in diameter, this small globe was a highly portable accessory illustrating the geography of the world.HistoryThe Newton family was among the leading English globe makers of the early 19th century, producing floor standing, table, pocket and hand globes under various names. Started by John Newton in 1783 the company developed through a number of partnerships until 1883.
John Newton sold globes at 128 Chancery Lane, London (1783 - 1799); 97 Chancery Lane (1803- 1816) and 66 Chancery Lane (1817 - 1818). He was succeeded by his sons John and William who continued to operate from 66 Chancery Lane from 1818 to 1830. The company operated at the same address as Newton, Son & Berry from 1830 to 1838 and as Newton & Berry until 1840. From 1841 the company became Newton & Son, operating at both 66 Chancery Lane (1841 - 1883) and 3 Fleet St, Temple Bar (1851 - 1857).
The globe bears the maker’s inscription - 'Newton's New and Improved Terrestrial Globe, Published by Newton & Son, 66 Chancery Land & 3 Fleet St, Temple Bar' - indicating a manufacturing date between 1851 and 1857.
This globe is a highly portable accessory illustrating the geography of the world.
SignificanceThe end of the Napoleonic wars ushered in a new era of British colonial expansion which excited new interest in the geography of the world. Hand globes such as this one made by Newton and Son provided a simple reference for teachers, emigrants and arm-chair travellers alike to explore what, by the end of Queen Victoria's reign in 1901 had become, the greatest empire on earth.
