Wilson Celestial Globe

James Wilson (1763–1855)
Date: 1819
Maker / Manufacturer: James Wilson (1763–1855)
Materials: Paper, ink, watercolor, maple, paint, brass
Credit: Albany Institute of History & Art Purchase
Accession Number: 1983.2.1
Comments:

This celestial globe is an early example of Wilson globes made in Albany. It was likely created in his workshop and retail store located at 110 Washington Avenue by James Wilson’s sons, Samuel and John. Globes were often sold in pairs (one terrestrial and one celestial) and were attractive for private ownership as well as for schools. Wilson’s talent is evident in every part of this globe. It rests on a finely crafted maple table stand. It rotates upon its axes within brass meridian rings and is surrounded by wood horizon rings indicating months and signs of the zodiac.