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Microscope

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probably made in England

Microscope
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This brass pocket microscope (pictured here with its leather-covered case) was made between 1800 and 1850, probably in England. It is unsigned, although the base is engraved with a one-time owner's initials: 'H.M. & R.D.M./TO/S.F.W.'

A botanical and universal microscope, it has three single lenses, which may be used separately or, as shown here, in combination. Its accessories include a glass stage plate, live box and stage forceps.

Botanical microscopes came into vogue from the mid 18th century, as all branches of natural history became fashionable, a fashion which lasted well into the 19th century. W. & S. Jones, who took over the publication of George Adams' textbooks, offered 'Botanical Microscopes for Flowers 8/- to £1 11s 6d' from 1798 until after 1850 in their catalogues bound in the back of the volume.

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