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Microscope

IHPST

A copper-coloured microscope. The microscope sits on a base comprised of three feet, each of which is chamfered at its end. The microscope has mounts for two objective lenses but none are mounted. It has a circular stage with an integral slide-carrier.

Accession Number: 2019.ihpst.67

Alternative Name: Bausch & Lomb Microscope

Primary Materials: Copper alloy, Glass.

Markings:

On side of arm:
“Pat. Oct 3, 1876”
“Pat Oct 13, 1885”

On top surface of objective mount:
“Bausch & Lomb Optical Co.”

Dimensions (cm): Height = 29.5, Width = 21, Length = 21.

Function:

This instrument magnifies objects too small to be seen with the naked eye.

Condition:

Good: The instrument has signs of superficial corrosion on nearly every surface. The varnishes is cracked on the coarse focusing knobs. The coarse focusing knobs do not engage, suggesting that the rack-and-pinion mechanism is damaged. The instrument has no objective lenses. The silvered finish on the mirror has been damaged.

Associated Instruments: 2019.ihpst.68, 2019.ihpst.69.1-3

Manufacturer: Bausch & Lomb Optical Co.

Date of Manufacture: Late 19th C.

Provenance:

This microscope was donated to the Institute for the History and Philosophy of Science and Technology by Dr. William (Bill) F Brien, MD, FRCPC on 26 April 2017. Dr. Brien was then finishing a lab position at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto.

This microscope belonged to his grandfather, James W. Brian, and was passed down to his father, Wilbert P. Brien. Both were medical graduates of the University of Toronto.

Additional Information and References:

Historical Notes:

Themes:

Flags:
  • Donated to UTSIC