long focus lens
Date: circa 1765
Inventory Number: 0009
Classification: Lens
Subject:
Attributed to: Benjamin Martin (1704 - 1782)
Cultural Region:
Place of Origin:
Dimensions:
44 x 24.5 x 24.5 cm (17 5/16 x 9 5/8 x 9 5/8 in.)
plano-convex lens: 19.1 cm (7 1/2 in.)
Bibliography:
The Apparatus of Science at Harvard, 1765-1800
Description:
The large convex lens is held in place by a circular mahogany frame, decorated on both sides with inlaid banding. This frame is cradled in a brass semicircle attached to a mahogany post. The latter is screwed into a turned mahogany base. That circular base is split, which could very well explain the later addition of the octogonal stage.
In Collection(s)
Signedunsigned
Inscribedon base: 9 138 [?]
on base: 9 126 [?]
on base: 9 126 [?]
FunctionUsed for optical experiments and as a teaching tool for discovering the laws of optics.
Historical AttributesThis lens is most likely the one described in Joseph Mico's list of intruments sent from London in 1765 on board of the Devonshire. The entry reads as follow: "a large Convex Lens 7½ Diameter, Brass Semicercal handle & foot in Mahogany, very neat."
Published ReferencesDavid P. Wheatland, The Apparatus of Science at Harvard, 1765-1800 (Cambridge: Harvard University Press, 1968), 117.