Flasks, used by Joseph Black

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These pieces of chemical glassware were used in teaching demonstrations by Professor Joseph Black (1728-99) at Edinburgh University. They were made in the late 18th century, possibly at Leith.

The central flask has a constricted neck. The other two pieces are tubes for producing electrostatic charges after rubbing against leather or cloth: small pieces of paper would appear to 'stick' to them.

With his separation and identification of the first gas distinct from air (carbon dioxide), Black may be considered the father of pneumatic chemistry. Other gases, notably oxygen and nitrogen, were discovered in quick succession by other scientists.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-190-001-238-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  T.1858.275.39
• Date: 1766 - 1799
  Late 18th century
  
• Material: Glass
  Flask / receiver
  
• Dimensions:
• What: Flask / receiver
  
• Subject: 4. CHEMISTRY, Apparatus and instruments, general (Departmental Classification)
  
• Who: Edinburgh University (Owner)
  Joseph Black (Owner)
  
• Where: Scotland, Midlothian, Edinburgh, Leith
  
• Event:
• Description: One of a collection of apparatus and instruments from Edinburgh University used by Professors Black, Hope and Gregory - 10 flasks or receivers used by Dr Joseph Black, 1766 - 1799, probably Leith made
  
• References:
  • Anderson, R. G. W., The Playfair Collection. Edinburgh: 1978, p 137, 141-7 
• Translations:
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