Rochette Père, Paris, Rococo-styled Ormolu microscope employing Martin’s optics
Stock Number: FG_25004
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This particular microscope, which seems to be the only one of its kind, was purchased in Paris. It utilizes the optical system of a Universal microscope made by Benjamin Martin, but the body has been replaced by an elaborate stand specially adapted for it. The stand features ornate Ormolu decorations made of gilded brass combined with lacquered wood, and even a crown-like ring was worn on the optical tube. Ironically, Martin's highly functional microscope became a showy luxury item designed for display in a parlor. It's a curious twist of history that an instrument from an English manufacturer, which aimed to make science accessible to all by creating affordable instruments, ended up being transformed into a flashy item meant to showcase status and prestige.
Dimensions
Height: ca. 30 cm.
Circa
ca. 1790
Countries of manufacture
UK and Ireland, France
Description
There is a blurry signature on the brass plate attached to the wooden baseplate:
Rochette Quai de l’Horloge Paris
At this address, two manufacturers, a father and son, operated with the names Rochette Père and Rochette Jeune. Gaspard Rochette (1754–1822) is Rochette Père, while Rochette Jeune refers to Jean Rochette (fl. 1817-1860), who worked in the first half of the 19th century. Although Jean Rochette signed several microscopes, Gaspard Rochette is not known for making optical instruments. The Rococo style and use of Martin’s microscope in this case are more suitable for the late 18th century, hence for the father. It is likely that the optical part of the microscope was specially adapted to the stylish body and base based on a special order from a wealthy customer who wanted to turn his practical instrument into a display accessory.
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Gilgamesh
Gilgamesh is a mythological hero from the ancient cultures of West Asia, who embarked on a journey in search of youth and eternal life. Fleaglass Gilgamesh is located in Israel. As an Emeritus Professor of archaeology, I have spent over four decades researching the material culture of the distant past, utilizing the microscope as a powerful research tool. For the past thirty years, I have collected microscopes from the first 300 years of this remarkable instrument's history and have studied the cultural context of their use.
What started as a passion has turned into an obsession, and I now cultivate a nearly unique collection of historical microscopes from West Asia. From time to time, I offer surplus or particularly interesting items from my collection for sale. I am happy to provide free advice to any interested collector. If you would like to receive photos, information, and bibliographic references, or if you wish to discuss the details of the items I have for sale, please feel free to reach out.
