Microscope

Description:

Simple microscopes came into use in the seventeenth century and, being less expensive than compound instruments, and often showing more details as well, remained popular for quite some time. This example is brass, with an ivory handle and iron forceps to hold the specimen. Historians refer to this form as a “compass” microscope, presumably reflecting its resemblance to a drawing compass. Many similar pieces are known. Few are signed.

Location: Currently not on view

Subject: Science & Scientific Instruments

Subject:

See more items in: Medicine and Science: Medicine, Microscopes, Science & Mathematics

Exhibition:

Exhibition Location:

Data Source: National Museum of American History

Id Number: MG.281267.08Catalog Number: M-12323Accession Number: 281267Catalog Number: 281267.08

Object Name: microscope

Physical Description: brass (overall material)glass (overall material)ivory (overall material)Measurements: overall: 1 3/4 in x 7/8 in x 4 1/2 in; 4.445 cm x 2.2225 cm x 11.43 cm

Guid: http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/ng49ca746ac-97fa-704b-e053-15f76fa0b4fa

Record Id: nmah_1351503

Our collection database is a work in progress. We may update this record based on further research and review. Learn more about our approach to sharing our collection online.

If you would like to know how you can use content on this page, see the Smithsonian's Terms of Use. If you need to request an image for publication or other use, please visit Rights and Reproductions.