Description

A rare and fine Asmus’ Sideroscope by Richard Sitte, Breslau, Germany c. 1900. Museum quality piece and only slightly modified as the original electromagnet obviously failed and was discarded. Wonderful mahogany/rosewood, brass and glass construction on three adjustable legs. Ophthalmic instruments/additional magnets included.

This instrument was used for the magnetic detection and removal of iron and steel filings from the eye using a compass needle enclosed in a glass tube, suspended by a silken thread (intact). The downfall of the instrument was that it was usually fixed (this one was NOT) to a tabletop and the attending physician and patient would have to be moved into proper position for detection/extraction (see photo from the original German patent and text). Archaic and questionably effective but non-invasive. There are very few of these instruments surviving (for good reason-very delicate). More photos of detail now posted.