Microscope

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This brass solar microscope dates from the late 18th century. Probably bought-in from London, it was retailed by John Gibson, a scientific instrument maker based in Kelso in the Borders.

The microscope is stored in a fitted wooden case. Its accessories include six alternative objectives, brass and ivory slides, brass wire, cover slips and two manuscripts: 'Description of the Microscopic Apparatus' and 'Objects in the Slides'.

The manuscripts show that John Gibson put together the slides himself.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-100-102-838-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  T.1988.84
• Date: Late 18th century
  
• Material: Brass / wooden case. Inscription: Gibson Kelso; Description of the Microscope Apparatus made and sold by John Gibson Optician Kelso; Objectives in the sli
  Microscope, solar / case
  
• Dimensions: 310 mm x 160 mm x 75 mm / 350 mm x 200 mm x 120 mm
  
• What: Microscope, solar / case
  
• Subject:
• Who: John Gibson, Kelso, Scotland (Retailer)
  
• Where: Scotland, Roxburghshire, Kelso
  
• Event:
• Description: Solar microscope of brass, with accessories in a wooden case, by John Gibson of Kelso, late 18th century
  
• References:
  • Sinclair, Sir John (ed). Statistical Account of Scotland. Edinburgh: Blackwood, 1845. p 591 
• Translations:
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