Culver City,
California
x
Space Race Globe
Maker: Unknown
Date Made: n.d.
Country: Soviet Union
Materials: metal; plastic; glass; enamel; liquor; paper
Measurements: 28 cm x 47 cm x 47 cm; 11 in x 18 1/2 in x 18 1/2 in; 12.5 cm x 4 cm; 4 15/16 in x 1 9/16 in; 8.5 cm x 17 cm; 3 3/8 in x 6 11/16 in
This is a souvenir globe, on a stand with a gift inscription in honor of the 50th anniversary from the Central Committee staff. The globe has three metal prongs which intersect with a curved black background studded with stars. This background exhibits a couple large scratches. The design of the globe stand has a striking resemblance to the Sputnik satellite, further glorifying the space exploration accomplishments of the Soviet Union. The inscription mentions a 50th anniversary, but does not include a specific date. The globe lacks border lines, but contains some topography, most notably the Ural Mountains. Much of the globe is distorted so that the Soviet Union appears larger. Surrounding the globe is a strip of metal meant to resemble an orbit. At the apex of the orbit is a plastic space shuttle with a red cone and this shuttle is slightly loose so it can rotate. The northern hemisphere of the globe has some damage right near the north pole. It can also be removed to access 6 mini bottles of cognac from the 1980s. Each bottle has a custom label thematically linked with space exploration. The bottles are sealed with golden caps. The inside of the globe is also painted gold.
Accession Number: 2023.050.002
Collection/Series: Outer Space