Description
J. Forest made a large variety of globes in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, largely for school use, but also for the home. Their prolific output included table globes, some on ebonized turned stands; floor globes; and novelty globes, including terrestrial globes on geared turntable stands, and globe-form cigarette lighters. In the 20th century, Forest produced light up globes, including ones on modernist aluminum bases. Forest globes were mainly labeled in French, with some produced for export in English or Spanish.
In the 2nd quarter of the 20th century J. Forest was apparently succeeded by the geographical publishing firm Girard & Barrére, which continued to offer “Globes Forest” at the same Rue de Buci address in Paris that Forest had used. During the early and mid 20th century the firm also produced globes and geographical publications as Girard, Barrére et Thomas. This may have been a merger or partnership with the 19th century Paris globe maker G. Thomas.
Cartouche: TERRESTRIAL/GLOBE/ Made and for sale by/ J. FOREST/ Geographer/ 17-19 R. de Buci, 17-19/ PARIS
Brass Stamped: Eclair, BREVETE MODELE DEPOSE/ S.G.D.G./ Made in France
Condition: Generally very good with the usual overall toning, wear, soiling. Few abrasions, especially at South Pole where it rests on the table, neatly restored.
