Replica. This microscope was made by Antoni van Leeuwenhoek (1632-1723), a Dutch microscopist who was the first to observe bacteria and protozoa using his own simple microscopes. This one consists of a single double convex lens mounted between two thin brass plates riveted together. The object to be examined is held in front of a lens on the point of a short rod which is mounted on a small brass block loosely riveted to coarse-threaded screw; this acts through a socket angle-piece attached to the lower end of the plates by a thumb-screw. In this way the object can be brought in front of the lens, and focusing is effected by a thumb-screw passing through the mounting block and acting against the plates.

Picture Reference: 10304715
Subject: SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY > Microscopy > Microscopes, 17Th Century
Inventory No.: 1929-0802
Credit: Science Museum

Keywords: 17th Century, Bacteria, Dutch, First, Laboratory Equipment, Laboratory Instrument, Leeuwenhoek, Leeuwenhoek Microscopes, Leeuwenhoek, Antoni Van, Mercantile Age, Microscope, Microscopes, 17th Century, Netherlands, Protozoa, Science, Scientific Apparatus, Scientific Equipment

If you want to buy this image as a decorative print, click here: