58. Large monocular microscope. Newton & Co. London. 1840.

This large monocular microscope from Newton & Co. is an extraordinary, oversized piece. It is 40 centimetres tall. Made entirely of brass and enamelled, in perfect condition and functioning. It is a good example of the technical perfection that was achieved in the manufacture of optical instruments in the mid-19th century.

It has a coarse screw on both sides that acts on a triangular toothed shaft on its back. A micrometre at the back of the optical tube positioned as a small horizontal wheel. Its stage is square and manual displacement. To adjust the light, it has a simple wheel condenser that has an extension tube in one of its holes. It has a wooden case with three lenses and the manufacturer’s name appears on the box.