Description

The first form of John Cuff’s ‘microscope for opake objects’, as described in Henry Baker’s The Microscope Made Easy (1743). In original sharkskin lined case, with accessories. Very likely made by John Cuff or George Adams, c.1745.

The microscope consists in a finely turned ivory handle (see below for a note on ivory), which attaches to a brass body. This example has an unusual pear-shaped framework leading to the lens, rather than the solid brass piece more commonly seen. Two (of four) Lieberkuhn lenses are provided, with excellent optics and good magnfication. Also provided are: a specimen holder, light/dark ground, reversible forceps and tweezers.

The microscope itself is in excellent condition, noting only some warping to the ivory handle. The case is worn and now does not fully close; one hinge has become detached from the case cover, though it remains intact.

For illustrations of this design see Baker, Microscope Made Easy (1743), Pl.IIII: https://digital.sciencehistory.org/works/d74pfmh and George Adams, Micrographia Illustrata (1747), Pl.5, Fig.8: https://wellcomecollection.org/works/un3wp688/items?canvas=45

Note: this item contains ivory, and has been registered with the UK government (reg.BXUW8G78).