Lot 165: A 19th-Century Cased Brass Monocular Microscope

A 19th-century compound monocular microscope of hybrid drum or Lister-type design. The instrument features a polished brass body tube, eyepiece, and objective assembly mounted upon a black-painted cast limb and Y-shaped foot. The mechanical operation is facilitated by a rack-and-pinion focusing mechanism, controlled by a large milled brass knob positioned on the side of the body tube. Below the stage, a gimbal-mounted plano-concave mirror is attached for light reflection. The stage itself is fitted with a single remaining brass slide clip.

The microscope is housed in its original mahogany fitted case. The interior of the case is lined with purple velvet supports to secure the instrument and includes a separate compartment for accessories or slides. No maker’s name or identifying marks are visible on the instrument or its housing.