A RARE, POSSIBLY UNIQUE, WILSON-TYPE SCREW BARREL MICROSCOPE OF CIRCA 1745 RECOVERED FROM THE CHINA TRADE EAST INDIAMAN HARTWELL, WRECKED 1787

unsigned, the barrel with ½in. objective, sprung stage mounted on tapering brass pillar with adjusting limb to a square brass base with swivel mirror -- 3¼in. ( 8.5cm.) high; together with a second eye-piece and objective lens, and two ebonised four-aperture slides, one with specimens, all contained within a later Plexiglass display case

(A lot)

Recovered by Afrimar, the salvage company appointed by Cape Verde authorities, between 1994-96. Sold at Christie's Amsterdam 9th September 1997, lot 320.

This pattern of Wilson-type screw barrel has not been found in any of the specialist national collections and, at the time of writing, appears to be unique. The Hartwell was filled with exotic technical material for trading with the Chinese, many of which were beautifully preserved when recovered, in addition to a significant amount of species. The wreck was partially recovered by the Braithwaite brothers between 1788-91 when nearly 100,000 silver dollars were recovered. A letter accompanying this lot from Prof. G. Turner late of the Oxford Museum of the History of Science, and author on early microscopes states that he has not located another example in this form. It seems likely the microscope was added to the stand some time after it was made, indicating that this was not in the trading cargo of the ship, but formed part of the personal baggage of a passenger or officer.

Condition Report

Optics seem to be complete and intact; slides warped.

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.