2016, Shopping Feature, New York Cottages & Gardens, ‘Orbit of Influence’

WHAT IT IS: A Ptolemaic armillary sphere (10″ diam. x 15″ h.), which depicts basic principles and elements of astronomy, including the rotation of the earth, moon, and sun as well as the zodiac, the equator, and the tropics of Capricorn and Cancer. It shows the earth — as opposed to the sun — at the center of the universe.

PROVENANCE: French globe maker Louis-Charles Desnos created the wood, pasteboard, and engraved-paper sphere, which is signed and dated 1753. Antiques dealer George Glazer, who specializes in historic globes, maps and planetary models, purchased it at auction from a a private American collection.

WHAT MAKES IT SPECIAL: “This is a particularly early example of an armillary sphere by a famous maker,” says Glazer. “It was produced during the Age of Enlightenment, when astronomy was considered an important component of a well-rounded intellect.”

WHY YOU SHOULD BUY IT: “Often with spheres of this age, the terrestrial globes are missing,” says Glazer. “Considering factors like humidity and people handling them over time, I’m amazed to see any that are intact. But this one is in good condition, and the writing is still legible.”