A large architects model consisting of two spirals and 32 steps. The spiral staircase with columnar balusters, shaped skirt brackets, set on a circular base with bullnose edge. 43" height x 18.0" diameter (107cm x 46cm). Miniature staircase models originated in a French guild system known as " compagnonnage " especially during the 17th to 19th centuries. The staircases were the culminating project of an apprenticeship to be accepted into the guild as a master craftsman, demonstrating the applicant's virtuosity in woodworking and design. Miniature staircases were produced by architects and furniture makers as fanciful projects (often as apprentices or students), primarily in the 19th and 20th centuries. They were also made for staircase manufacturers as models in designing or patenting proposed structures, as well as salesman's samples. The collecting of staircase models was also popularized in the late 20th century by the publisher Carter Burden and the fashion designer Bill Blass. Burden was a descendant of Commodore Vanderbilt, and an ardent collector of books and decorative objects.