Drum microscope, first half of 19th century
- Containers:
- Artifact-box 351, Item hwilba0002
- Scope and content:
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Compound monocular microscope, unsigned. Made of brass with cutaway on both sides.
Popular in England between 1820 and 1850, the drum microscope evolved from a design introduced in 1738 by London optician Benjamin Martin, author of the "Pocket Reflecting Microscope." The name came from the drum-shaped section below the stage. Focusing was achieved by manipulating the telescopic body tube. This portable pocket microscope was typically made of thin brass with a round base and cut-out side. Some versions were sold in toy shops.
- Acquisition information:
- Received from: George D. Wilbanks, MD and Evelyn R. Wilbanks, PhD
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