Lot 397
MAHOGANY CASED BRASS BINOCULAR MICROSCOPE, BY SMITH, BECK & BECK, LONDON
CIRCA 1865
Fine Furniture and Works of Art
Auction: 5 April 2017 at 11:00 BST
Description
the binocular tubes with a single objective, marked SMITH, BECK & BECK/ 31 CORNHILL/ LONDON/ 3572, rack and pinion focus, with a square stage with slide holder and specimen holder, with tube diaphragm, a single mirror, with further accessories including eyepieces and objectives, in a fitted case
Dimensions
39cm high
Footnote
The Collection of the Late Allan Murray.
Provenance: Science & Technology sale no. 1790, Skinner, Bolton, 19 July 1997, Lot 90
Note: James Smith was generally regarded as one of the most highly skilled microscope manufacturers in the world, in the mid-19th century. Having trained with Joseph Jackson Lister, a pioneering British optical scientist, Smith partnered with Lister's nephews, Richard and Joseph Beck, to form 'Smith, Beck and Beck' in 1857. The company created some of the finest quality scientific instruments in London, and Smith in particular is often credited for encouraging the greater use of microscopes in scientific research.