Ø A FOLDING PIN SIMPLE BOTANISTS MICROSCOPE RETAILED BY WILLIAM RUSHBY, CIRCA 1780

of typical form with turned ivory handle, and sliding specimen pin, contained in card case, stamped Rushby, Cherry Tree Hill -- 2¼in (5.5cm.) wide, IDN: D6PMDSXM

Dr. Mill notes:

No Gentleman was well equipped at the end of the eighteenth century and beginning of the nineteenth unless he carried one of these in his pocket. The design first appears in Jones’ second edition of Adams “Essays on the Microscope” 1798. Essentially a single lens on a small brass frame with an ivory handle and a sliding spike to hold an impaled specimen in focus. The spike here is simple brass whereas later models used a steel needle held in a brass chuck. The microscope folds up to slip into a tiny leather covered case (55x26x21mm).

The case is of card with a decorative marbled paper. The case carries tooling including two stylised helical shells.

Condition Report

Fine overall condition.

We are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of this property. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Charles Miller Ltd is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD “AS IS” IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE.