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Antique Optical Instruments

Antique Cased Optometrist's Set, English, Optical Instrument, Boxed, Victorian
Antique Cased Optometrist's Set, English, Optical Instrument, Boxed, Victorian

Antique Cased Optometrist's Set, English, Optical Instrument, Boxed, Victorian

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

An English, mahogany optical instrument box, dating to the late Victorian period, circa 1900.

Category

Late 19th Century British Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Wood

Antique Pair of Cased Binoculars, English, Brass, Optical Instrument, Victorian
Antique Pair of Cased Binoculars, English, Brass, Optical Instrument, Victorian

Antique Pair of Cased Binoculars, English, Brass, Optical Instrument, Victorian

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

An English, enamel brass optical instrument, dating to the Victorian period, circa 1900.

Category

Early 20th Century British Late Victorian Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

Antique Optometrist's Set, English, Optical Instrument Case, Victorian, C.1900
Antique Optometrist's Set, English, Optical Instrument Case, Victorian, C.1900

Antique Optometrist's Set, English, Optical Instrument Case, Victorian, C.1900

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

An English, mahogany optical instrument case, dating to the late Victorian period, circa 1900.

Category

Late 19th Century British Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Wood

Antique Optometrist's Skiascope, French, Ebony, Optical Instrument, Victorian
Antique Optometrist's Skiascope, French, Ebony, Optical Instrument, Victorian

Antique Optometrist's Skiascope, French, Ebony, Optical Instrument, Victorian

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

A French, ebony and glass optical instrument, dating to the late Victorian period, circa 1900.

Category

Late 19th Century French Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Ebony

Large Industrial Copper Inspection Magnifier, Machine Age Optical Instrument
Large Industrial Copper Inspection Magnifier, Machine Age Optical Instrument

Large Industrial Copper Inspection Magnifier, Machine Age Optical Instrument

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

A striking industrial optical inspection magnifier constructed from copper, iron, and glass, dating to the early-to-mid 20th century.

Category

Early 20th Century American Industrial Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Metal, Copper, Iron

1893 Antique Lippich Brass Polarimeter Antique Physic Analysis  Instrument
1893 Antique Lippich Brass Polarimeter Antique Physic Analysis  Instrument

1893 Antique Lippich Brass Polarimeter Antique Physic Analysis Instrument

By Societé Genevoise

Located in Milan, IT

It is an optical instrument of analysis used to determine the concentration of sucrose and glucose in raw materials and sugary food.

Category

1890s Swiss Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

Small Antique 3 Draw Telescope, English Brass, Fruitwood, Terrestrial, Victorian
Small Antique 3 Draw Telescope, English Brass, Fruitwood, Terrestrial, Victorian

Small Antique 3 Draw Telescope, English Brass, Fruitwood, Terrestrial, Victorian

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

A delightfully tactile optical instrument, with fine brass barrels and a richly toned wooden main tube.

Category

Early 20th Century British Late Victorian Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

Antique Victorian Pince-Nez Glasses on Stand, circa 1890
Antique Victorian Pince-Nez Glasses on Stand, circa 1890

Antique Victorian Pince-Nez Glasses on Stand, circa 1890

Located in Nottingham, GB

The spectacles remain in original condition and make an engaging decorative object for a collection of antique eyewear, optical instruments or late Victorian curiosities.

Category

19th Century Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass, Steel

Holland Circle by Baumann and Kinzelbach
Holland Circle by Baumann and Kinzelbach

Holland Circle by Baumann and Kinzelbach

Located in New Orleans, LA

This intriguing item is almost certainly a Holland Circle by German scientific instrument makers Baumann & Kinzelbach. The Holland Circle, sometimes referred to as a Dutch Circle...

Category

19th Century German Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Bronze

A fine mahogany ship’s stick barometer by Dolland & Son
A fine mahogany ship’s stick barometer by Dolland & Son

A fine mahogany ship’s stick barometer by Dolland & Son

By Dolland

Located in Lymington, Hampshire

Peter Dollond (1731-1820), the son of the Huguenot silk weaver John Dollond, set up as an optician at the age of 20 and became the most eminent optical instrument maker of the late 1...

Category

Early 19th Century English Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

Bow-Front Marine Barometer by John Dollond
Bow-Front Marine Barometer by John Dollond

Bow-Front Marine Barometer by John Dollond

By Dollond, London

Located in Lymington, Hampshire

Measures: Height: 35in (89cm) Width: 2½in (6.5cm) Max depth of gimbal: 8½in (21.5cm) Peter Dollond (1731-1820), the son of the Huguenot silk weaver John Dollond, set up as an opti...

Category

1820s English Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

Vintage Bausch & Lomb Optical Blue Refractor Phoropter Medical Eye Exam Machine
Vintage Bausch & Lomb Optical Blue Refractor Phoropter Medical Eye Exam Machine

Vintage Bausch & Lomb Optical Blue Refractor Phoropter Medical Eye Exam Machine

By Bausch & Lomb

Located in Philadelphia, PA

Vintage Bausch & Lomb Optical Blue Refractor Phoropter Medical Eye Exam Machine. Early 20th Century. Measurements: 11" H x 12.5" W x 4" D.

Category

Early 20th Century Unknown Art Deco Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Metal

Antique Max Kohl Chemnitz Germany Brass Iron Optical Polariscope Scope 15"
Antique Max Kohl Chemnitz Germany Brass Iron Optical Polariscope Scope 15"

Antique Max Kohl Chemnitz Germany Brass Iron Optical Polariscope Scope 15"

Located in Dayton, OH

Rare antique Max Kohl, Chemnitz, Germany, microscope / polariscope. Made of brass and cast iron with tripod base and two lenses. Circa 1900. Max Kohl was founded in 1876 by Max Ha...

Category

Early 20th Century German Victorian Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

19th C Pair of Large Optical Experimental Scientific Mirrors Concave & Convex
19th C Pair of Large Optical Experimental Scientific Mirrors Concave & Convex

19th C Pair of Large Optical Experimental Scientific Mirrors Concave & Convex

Located in Lowestoft, GB

A large pair of scientific optical mirrors, one concave the other convex. These where used in studies of optical sciences and in particular the study of the properties of light r...

Category

Late 19th Century English Late Victorian Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

Antique Pocket Poco by the Rochester Optical Co. Folding Camera c.1903
Antique Pocket Poco by the Rochester Optical Co. Folding Camera c.1903

Antique Pocket Poco by the Rochester Optical Co. Folding Camera c.1903

Located in San Francisco, CA

ABOUT The original Pocket Poco was manufactured by the Rochester Optical Co. from approximately 1893 to 1905. Designed as a small compact camera, the camera took 3 1/4 x 4 1/4 (qu...

Category

Early 20th Century American Victorian Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass, Nickel

Antique Microscope by W. Klein Wetzlar with Carl Zeiss optical lenses, Germany
Antique Microscope by W. Klein Wetzlar with Carl Zeiss optical lenses, Germany

Antique Microscope by W. Klein Wetzlar with Carl Zeiss optical lenses, Germany

Located in Beograd, RS

In this listing you will find a rare antique Microscope manufactured by W. Klein in Wetzlar. The microscope features a solid brass body that has developed a rich patina and it featur...

Category

Early 1900s German Industrial Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

19th C. Scientific Optical Mirror in Black Hardwood Frame on Tripod Brass Stand
19th C. Scientific Optical Mirror in Black Hardwood Frame on Tripod Brass Stand

19th C. Scientific Optical Mirror in Black Hardwood Frame on Tripod Brass Stand

Located in Haarlem, NL

A large 19th Century scientific optical mirror in round blackened hardwood frame on brass articulated tripod stand. The mirror looks concave or convex shaped, but if you look closely...

Category

19th Century British Victorian Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

Leitz Brass Compound Microscope
Leitz Brass Compound Microscope

Leitz Brass Compound Microscope

By E. Leitz

Located in New Orleans, LA

Their polarizing and petrographic models were in high demand for use in mineralogy, pathology and industrial applications. The instruments remain renowned for their optical clarity a...

Category

19th Century Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Optical Glass, Wood

Refractor telescope by François Can, 81 Quai de l'Hôpital, Lyon
Refractor telescope by François Can, 81 Quai de l'Hôpital, Lyon

Refractor telescope by François Can, 81 Quai de l'Hôpital, Lyon

Located in London, GB

2 ¾ inch refractor telescope by François Can, 81 Quai de l'Hôpital, Lyon. Circa 1835. Mounted on a cast iron stand with adjustable height, folding tripod feet, and castors. 2 ¾ inc...

Category

Mid-19th Century French Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass, Iron

1920s 35 Zeiss-Ikon 35 Cm Cinema Projector
1920s 35 Zeiss-Ikon 35 Cm Cinema Projector

1920s 35 Zeiss-Ikon 35 Cm Cinema Projector

By Zeiss Ikon

Located in London, GB

A late 1920s 35 mm Zeiss-Ikon cinema projector. Lens: Neokino 52.5/110 by Emil Busch A.-G. Rathenow. Original black paint. Lamp house contains the parabolic mirror. Prove...

Category

Early 20th Century German Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass, Steel, Iron

French Brass & Polished Steel Telescope w/ Spotting Scope on Tripod Stand C 1850
French Brass & Polished Steel Telescope w/ Spotting Scope on Tripod Stand C 1850

French Brass & Polished Steel Telescope w/ Spotting Scope on Tripod Stand C 1850

By Bardou & Son

Located in Charleston, SC

French brass and polished steel telescope with removable lens cap, spotting scope, and mounted on folding tripod stand, 19th Century. Signed on focal tube by prolific telescope make...

Category

1850s French Louis Philippe Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass, Steel

English Brass Telescope w/ Spotting Scope & Stabilizer Bar on Tripod Stand 1870
English Brass Telescope w/ Spotting Scope & Stabilizer Bar on Tripod Stand 1870

English Brass Telescope w/ Spotting Scope & Stabilizer Bar on Tripod Stand 1870

Located in Charleston, SC

English brass and polished steel telescope with spotting scope, adjustable stabilizer bar, and mounted on folding tripod stand, 19th Century. Manufacturer T. Cooke & Sons, York. Tel...

Category

1870s American Victorian Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass, Steel

19th Century German “Magic Lantern” Image Projector with Brass Lens
19th Century German “Magic Lantern” Image Projector with Brass Lens

19th Century German “Magic Lantern” Image Projector with Brass Lens

Located in Middleburg, VA

A captivating piece of pre-cinema history, this 19th-century German "magic lantern" image projector is an evocative relic from the dawn of visual storytelling. Crafted circa 1890, th...

Category

Late 19th Century German Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass, Metal, Steel, Iron, Sheet Metal, Tin

Antique French Napoleon III Stereo Graphoscope Looking Glass Photo Magnifier
Antique French Napoleon III Stereo Graphoscope Looking Glass Photo Magnifier

Antique French Napoleon III Stereo Graphoscope Looking Glass Photo Magnifier

Located in Dayton, OH

Its foldable design with a compartment for storing cards adds both functionality and elegance, making this piece a fine example of 19th-century optical instruments and decorative art...

Category

19th Century French Victorian Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Glass, Hardwood

19th Century Large Barometer
19th Century Large Barometer

19th Century Large Barometer

Located in Dublin 8, IE

Aside from primarily being an optician, he also made and sold all types of optical and scientific instruments. He worked in London at 24 Coventry St. from 1840 to 1854.

Category

Mid-19th Century English Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Glass, Satinwood

20th Century English Theodolite by W.F. Stanley London in Original Wooden Box
20th Century English Theodolite by W.F. Stanley London in Original Wooden Box

20th Century English Theodolite by W.F. Stanley London in Original Wooden Box

By W. F. Stanley

Located in Sofia, BG

20th century English surveyor's theodolite or transit instrument of brass by W.F. Stanley (Optical, Philosophical & Mathematical Instrument Manufacturer, London), circa 1930, in orig...

Category

Early 20th Century English Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

Worthington of London English Stick Barometer
Worthington of London English Stick Barometer

Worthington of London English Stick Barometer

Located in New Orleans, LA

Signed "Worthington London" Circa 1825 38 1/4" length Owning a barometer in the early Georgian period was considered a basic necessity and even households of the most modest means...

Category

19th Century English Georgian Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Mahogany

Oxidised Surveyors Level by Reid and Young
Oxidised Surveyors Level by Reid and Young

Oxidised Surveyors Level by Reid and Young

Located in Norwich, GB

James White is listed as a Optical, Mathmatical and Philosophical instrument maker: 1850-1852 24 Renfield Street, Glasgow 1853-1856 14, Renfield St, Glasgow 1860-1863 1, Renfield ...

Category

1920s British Edwardian Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

Pair Silver Victorian Folding Lorgnette's
Pair Silver Victorian Folding Lorgnette's

Pair Silver Victorian Folding Lorgnette's

Located in Los Angeles, CA

A delightful addition to a collection of antique optical instruments or a decorative object that speaks to Victorian sophistication and style.

Category

Early 20th Century Victorian Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Silver

Figures of a Jewish Porcelain  Peddler and his Wife, Derby, England, Circa 1770
Figures of a Jewish Porcelain  Peddler and his Wife, Derby, England, Circa 1770

Figures of a Jewish Porcelain Peddler and his Wife, Derby, England, Circa 1770

Located in New York, NY

The expansion of the Royal Navy enabled some Jews to become established as marine storekeepers, optical instrument dealers and tailors in the West Country seaports.

Category

1770s European Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Porcelain

Fluorite Crystal in Brass Stand
Fluorite Crystal in Brass Stand

Fluorite Crystal in Brass Stand

Located in Scorton, GB

Today, fluorite is highly sought after for its vibrant colours, which range from purple and blue to green and yellow, and its applications in jewellery, industrial processes, and opt...

Category

15th Century and Earlier British Prehistoric Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Rock Crystal, Brass

Fluorite Crystal in Brass Stand
Fluorite Crystal in Brass Stand

Fluorite Crystal in Brass Stand

Located in Scorton, GB

Today, fluorite is highly sought after for its vibrant colours, which range from purple and blue to green and yellow, and its applications in jewellery, industrial processes, and opt...

Category

15th Century and Earlier British Prehistoric Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Rock Crystal, Brass

Blue Fluorite Crystal in Bronze Stand
Blue Fluorite Crystal in Bronze Stand

Blue Fluorite Crystal in Bronze Stand

Located in Scorton, GB

Today, fluorite is highly sought after for its vibrant colours, which range from purple and blue to green and yellow, and its applications in jewellery, industrial processes, and opt...

Category

15th Century and Earlier British Prehistoric Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Rock Crystal, Bronze

Blue Fluorite Crystal in Bronze Stand
Blue Fluorite Crystal in Bronze Stand

Blue Fluorite Crystal in Bronze Stand

Located in Scorton, GB

Today, fluorite is highly sought after for its vibrant colours, which range from purple and blue to green and yellow, and its applications in jewellery, industrial processes, and opt...

Category

15th Century and Earlier British Prehistoric Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Rock Crystal, Bronze

Blue Fluorite Crystal in Bronze Stand
Blue Fluorite Crystal in Bronze Stand

Blue Fluorite Crystal in Bronze Stand

Located in Scorton, GB

Today, fluorite is highly sought after for its vibrant colours, which range from purple and blue to green and yellow, and its applications in jewellery, industrial processes, and opt...

Category

15th Century and Earlier Chinese Prehistoric Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Rock Crystal, Bronze

Frankfurt am Main Optica View – Huguier Paris Hand-Colored Vue d’Optique c.1780
Frankfurt am Main Optica View – Huguier Paris Hand-Colored Vue d’Optique c.1780

Frankfurt am Main Optica View – Huguier Paris Hand-Colored Vue d’Optique c.1780

Located in Langweer, NL

These views were collected by aristocratic and bourgeois audiences alike and often displayed in cabinets or salons alongside optical instruments. Frankfurt was a particularly desira...

Category

Late 19th Century Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Paper

Fine Scottish Two-Day Marine Chronometer Signed and Numbered D. McGregor
Fine Scottish Two-Day Marine Chronometer Signed and Numbered D. McGregor

Fine Scottish Two-Day Marine Chronometer Signed and Numbered D. McGregor

By D. McGregor & Co. 1

Located in Oxfordshire, United Kingdom

They advertised themselves as manufacturers of nautical, mathematical and optical instruments, chronometers and watches. They often made use of famous chronometer makers such as Kulb...

Category

Mid-19th Century Scottish Victorian Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

Wall Mounted Calipers from the Ross Optical Company London
Wall Mounted Calipers from the Ross Optical Company London

Wall Mounted Calipers from the Ross Optical Company London

Located in London, GB

Ross of London was a maker of mathematical, optical and philosophical instruments , founded in 1830 by Andrew Ross.

Category

Early 20th Century English Industrial Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Steel

Antique Stebbing of Southampton Brass Nautical Maritime Telescope
Antique Stebbing of Southampton Brass Nautical Maritime Telescope

Antique Stebbing of Southampton Brass Nautical Maritime Telescope

Located in Nottingham, GB

A handsome leather-bound brass telescope by Stebbing of Southampton, a respected English maker renowned for producing quality optical and maritime instruments. Combining polished bra...

Category

Late 19th Century Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

Antique Nautical Brass Parallels Original Mahogany Box made in Plymouth, 1860
Antique Nautical Brass Parallels Original Mahogany Box made in Plymouth, 1860

Antique Nautical Brass Parallels Original Mahogany Box made in Plymouth, 1860

By W. Heath, Plymouth 1

Located in Milan, IT

Brass parallels signed W. Heath Plymouth, optical and scientific instruments maker active since 1860.

Category

Late 19th Century British Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

Recent Sales

Early Electric Scientific Micro Slide Projector
Early Electric Scientific Micro Slide Projector

Early Electric Scientific Micro Slide Projector

Unavailable

H 18 in W 30 in D 14 in

Early Electric Scientific Micro Slide Projector

Located in North Beninngton, VT

Cord seen in photo has been replaced. Great looking optical instrument.

Category

Early 1900s American Antique Optical Instruments

Late 19th Century Bardou & Son Paris Brass Telescope with GB Trademark on Tripod
Late 19th Century Bardou & Son Paris Brass Telescope with GB Trademark on Tripod

Late 19th Century Bardou & Son Paris Brass Telescope with GB Trademark on Tripod

By Bardou & Son

Located in Atlanta, GA

Late 19th century Words & Works St Louis, Bardou & Son Paris Brass Telescope with GB Trademark on wood tripod stand. Includes original wooden case. The tripod base measures 24" dia...

Category

Late 19th Century French Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Metal, Brass

George I Walnut Stick Barometer
George I Walnut Stick Barometer

George I Walnut Stick Barometer

Unavailable

H 39.38 in D 2.76 in

George I Walnut Stick Barometer

Located in Kent, GB

Domestic barometers were increasing in popularity and were made by optical and scientific instrument-makers as well as clockmakers.

Category

18th Century and Earlier English Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Walnut

Vernier Sextant by Heath and Company, London
Vernier Sextant by Heath and Company, London

Vernier Sextant by Heath and Company, London

Unavailable

H 6 in W 11 in D 10.5 in

Vernier Sextant by Heath and Company, London

By Heath & Co.

Located in Norwich, Norfolk

The lid of the case carries the original calibration certificate from the ‘Hazzanite’ instrument works dated 25/1/1928. Heath and Company were respected mathematical, nautical and...

Category

1920s Great Britain (UK) Other Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

Museum Quality Measuring Instrument, PH & F. Pellin, Paris, circa 1900
Museum Quality Measuring Instrument, PH & F. Pellin, Paris, circa 1900

Museum Quality Measuring Instrument, PH & F. Pellin, Paris, circa 1900

Located in Nijmegen, Gelderland

Pellin (the first successors who did not belong to the Soleil family), who continued the tradition of making optical measuring instruments. This lasted until 1941 when Felix Pellin d...

Category

Early 20th Century French Industrial Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass, Iron

Shagreen Etui by W & S Jones Opticians with Scientific Instruments Circa, 1800
Shagreen Etui by W & S Jones Opticians with Scientific Instruments Circa, 1800

Shagreen Etui by W & S Jones Opticians with Scientific Instruments Circa, 1800

Located in London, GB

William Jones was an English maker of many optical and scientific instruments during the late 18th and 19th centuries alongside his brother Samuel.

Category

19th Century British Antique Optical Instruments

Pair of Antique Binoculars, English, Brass, Leather, Optical Instrument, c.1920
Pair of Antique Binoculars, English, Brass, Leather, Optical Instrument, c.1920

Pair of Antique Binoculars, English, Brass, Leather, Optical Instrument, c.1920

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

An English, brass and leather optical instrument, dating to the early 20th century, circa 1920.

Category

Early 20th Century British Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

Optical Magnifying Glass with Stand – Precision Glass and Matte Black Metal
Optical Magnifying Glass with Stand – Precision Glass and Matte Black Metal

Optical Magnifying Glass with Stand – Precision Glass and Matte Black Metal

Located in Saint-Ouen, FR

Made from high-precision glass, it was originally part of optical instruments used for meticulous measurements and observations.

Category

19th Century French Modern Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Metal

Brass and Wooden Microscope Culpeper Model, circa 1770-1790
Brass and Wooden Microscope Culpeper Model, circa 1770-1790

Brass and Wooden Microscope Culpeper Model, circa 1770-1790

Located in Milan, IT

Antique brass and wooden microscope Culpeper model, circa 1770-1790. It is an antique optical instrument with a cylindrical optic pipe supported by three supports fixed on a wooden b...

Category

1780s Antique Optical Instruments

19th Century Brass Telescope Antique Marine Navigation Instrument
19th Century Brass Telescope Antique Marine Navigation Instrument

19th Century Brass Telescope Antique Marine Navigation Instrument

Located in Milan, IT

He showed it to his father and he fixed these lenses on a small board, making easier the observation, creating the first rudimentary instrument for optical approaching. But Lipperhey...

Category

1870s Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

Field Artillery Theodolite by Srb & Stys of Prague, 1930s
Field Artillery Theodolite by Srb & Stys of Prague, 1930s

Field Artillery Theodolite by Srb & Stys of Prague, 1930s

Located in Doylestown, PA

Spectacular precision optical instrument of bronze, brass and steel utilized by the Czech military for artillery surveying.

Category

Early 20th Century Czech Industrial Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass, Bronze, Steel

Saccharimetre a Penombres by Jj Duboscq
Saccharimetre a Penombres by Jj Duboscq

Saccharimetre a Penombres by Jj Duboscq

Sold

H 20.08 in W 18.12 in D 9.85 in

Saccharimetre a Penombres by Jj Duboscq

By J. Duboscq, Paris 1

Located in London, by appointment only

He was known in his time, and is remembered today, for the high quality of his optical instruments. 1817- 1886 His work was shown with prominence at the Great Exhibition of 1851.

Category

19th Century French Louis Philippe Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Steel, Brass

Through the Looking Glass: Napoleon III Magnifying Graphoscope
Through the Looking Glass: Napoleon III Magnifying Graphoscope

Through the Looking Glass: Napoleon III Magnifying Graphoscope

Located in New York, NY

Its foldable design with a compartment for storing cards adds both functionality and elegance, making this piece a fine example of 19th-century optical instruments and decorative art...

Category

19th Century French Napoleon III Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Wood, Glass

Brass Camera Lucida Made in the First Half of the 19th Century
Brass Camera Lucida Made in the First Half of the 19th Century

Brass Camera Lucida Made in the First Half of the 19th Century

Located in Milan, IT

Measures box 27 x 10 cm. This is an optical instrument used as an aid to the drawing, as the camera lucida allows to optically overlay the image to be drawn on the sheet on which ...

Category

1840s French Antique Optical Instruments

Small Antique 3 Draw Telescope, English, Brass, Terrestrial Spyglass, Victorian
Small Antique 3 Draw Telescope, English, Brass, Terrestrial Spyglass, Victorian

Small Antique 3 Draw Telescope, English, Brass, Terrestrial Spyglass, Victorian

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

Charmingly diminutive proportions, ideal for display or travel ephemera collections Polished brass barrels with bright golden tonality and attractive patina Primary barrel dressed wi...

Category

Early 20th Century British Late Victorian Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

19th Century 3 Draw Brass and Wood French Antique Terrestrial Telescope
19th Century 3 Draw Brass and Wood French Antique Terrestrial Telescope

19th Century 3 Draw Brass and Wood French Antique Terrestrial Telescope

Located in Milan, IT

He showed it to his father and he fixed these lenses on a small board, making easier the observation, creating the first rudimentary instrument for optical approaching. But Lipperhey...

Category

1850s Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

English or French Antique Brass Surveyor's Transit Theodolite, last quarter 19th
English or French Antique Brass Surveyor's Transit Theodolite, last quarter 19th

English or French Antique Brass Surveyor's Transit Theodolite, last quarter 19th

Located in Atlanta, GA

From Wikipedia: “A THEODOLITE is a precision optical instrument for measuring angles between designated visible points in the horizontal and vertical planes.

Category

1880s English Victorian Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

Antique Hughes Telescope, English, 5 Draw, Terrestrial, Astronomical, Regency
Antique Hughes Telescope, English, 5 Draw, Terrestrial, Astronomical, Regency

Antique Hughes Telescope, English, 5 Draw, Terrestrial, Astronomical, Regency

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

Wonderful example of Regency optical instrument making Displaying a desirable aged patina Leather shows deep russet hues and attractive signs of use Presenting a clear, sharp opti...

Category

Early 19th Century English Regency Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

Antique Telescope, Dollond, Refracting Library Scope in Mahogany Case circa 1800
Antique Telescope, Dollond, Refracting Library Scope in Mahogany Case circa 1800

Antique Telescope, Dollond, Refracting Library Scope in Mahogany Case circa 1800

By Dollond, London

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

Our Stock # R0667 This is an antique telescope in mahogany case dating to circa 1800 by renowned optical instrument maker Dollond. Clear sharp optics with 2" achromatic objecti...

Category

Late 18th Century Great Britain (UK) Georgian Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

Early 19th Century French Walnut and Brass Telescope Signed Vincent Chevalier
Early 19th Century French Walnut and Brass Telescope Signed Vincent Chevalier

Early 19th Century French Walnut and Brass Telescope Signed Vincent Chevalier

Located in Dallas, TX

(see label inside the box) A telescope is an optical instrument that makes distant objects appear magnified by using an arrangement of lenses or curved mirrors and lenses, or variou...

Category

Early 19th Century French Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

Georgian III Mahogany Thermometer by John Dollond
Georgian III Mahogany Thermometer by John Dollond

Georgian III Mahogany Thermometer by John Dollond

Located in Lymington, Hampshire

Footnote: Peter Dollond (1731-1820), the son of the Huguenot silk weaver John Dollond, set up as an optician at the age of 20 and became the most eminent optical instrument maker of ...

Category

1790s English Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Mahogany

Large Antique 4 Draw Telescope, English, Maritime Spyglass, W Harris, William IV
Large Antique 4 Draw Telescope, English, Maritime Spyglass, W Harris, William IV

Large Antique 4 Draw Telescope, English, Maritime Spyglass, W Harris, William IV

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

Of excellent proportion and finish, this fine optical instrument presents with both practical appeal and decorative presence.

Category

1830s British William IV Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

Adjustable Concave Ebonised and Brass Optical Scientific Mercury Mirror
Adjustable Concave Ebonised and Brass Optical Scientific Mercury Mirror

Adjustable Concave Ebonised and Brass Optical Scientific Mercury Mirror

Located in Lowestoft, GB

A scientific optical doubled sided mirror with one concave mirror plate the other flat These where used in studies of optical sciences and in particular the study of the properti...

Category

Late 19th Century English Late Victorian Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Mirror, Optical Glass, Hardwood

19th C Concave Ebonised and Brass Optical Scientific Foxed Mercury Mirror
19th C Concave Ebonised and Brass Optical Scientific Foxed Mercury Mirror

19th C Concave Ebonised and Brass Optical Scientific Foxed Mercury Mirror

Located in Lowestoft, GB

A scientific optical doubled sided mirror with one concave mirror plate the other flat. These where used in studies of optical sciences and in particular the study of the properti...

Category

Late 19th Century English Late Victorian Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Mirror, Optical Glass, Hardwood

19th Century English Optical Refractor Form
19th Century English Optical Refractor Form

19th Century English Optical Refractor Form

Located in London, GB

19th Century English Optical Refractor Form Used by optometrists to determine corrective lens prescriptions, this 19th Century very sculptural example is stood on a cast metal base ...

Category

1890s British Victorian Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Metal

Box of Magnifying Lenses by Kollmorgen Optical

Box of Magnifying Lenses by Kollmorgen Optical

Located in Culver City, CA

Box of magnifying lenses for Optometrist manufactured by Kollmorgen Optical.

Category

Early 20th Century Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

Antique French Louis XVI Period Signed Carcano Wall Barometer
Antique French Louis XVI Period Signed Carcano Wall Barometer

Antique French Louis XVI Period Signed Carcano Wall Barometer

By Jean-Joseph de Saint-Germain

Located in Forney, TX

He supplied barometers and other scientific instruments to the Ecole Militaire in 1786; the following year he supplied a tube barometer to British optical instruments manufacturer Pe...

Category

Late 18th Century French Louis XVI Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Blown Glass, Giltwood, Paint, Wood

18th Century Optical Anamorphoscope & Anamorphosis Hand Painted Imagery Curio
18th Century Optical Anamorphoscope & Anamorphosis Hand Painted Imagery Curio

18th Century Optical Anamorphoscope & Anamorphosis Hand Painted Imagery Curio

Located in Lowestoft, GB

Also known as “the miraculous mirror”, this optical device consists of a cylindrical pewter mirror that restores to its normal proportions an image distorted by the art of anamorphos...

Category

18th Century European Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Pine, Petrified Wood, Paper

19th Century Witches Optical Scientific Mirror Ball & Ebonised Stand
19th Century Witches Optical Scientific Mirror Ball & Ebonised Stand

19th Century Witches Optical Scientific Mirror Ball & Ebonised Stand

Located in Lowestoft, GB

A 19th century mercury glass witches ball on a later purpose made ebonised stand. The witches ball has a small glass lipped base that sits perfectly on the stand. The ball is heavi...

Category

Late 19th Century English Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Blown Glass, Pine

Early 20th Century Trio of Graduated Glass Optical Scientific Spheres
Early 20th Century Trio of Graduated Glass Optical Scientific Spheres

Early 20th Century Trio of Graduated Glass Optical Scientific Spheres

Located in Lowestoft, GB

A trio of early 20th century glass optical spheres, on ebonized stands. The smallest of the three stands is a later replacement, all the glass globes are in great order no chips o...

Category

Early 20th Century English Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Blown Glass, Hardwood

19th Century Pair of Optical Experimental Scientific Mirrors Concave and Convex
19th Century Pair of Optical Experimental Scientific Mirrors Concave and Convex

19th Century Pair of Optical Experimental Scientific Mirrors Concave and Convex

Located in Lowestoft, GB

A large pair of scientific optical mirrors, one concave the other convex. These where used in studies of optical sciences and in particular the study of the properties of light r...

Category

Late 19th Century English Late Victorian Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

Antique Magnifying Glass, English, Brass, Optical Reading Aid, Edwardian, C.1910
Antique Magnifying Glass, English, Brass, Optical Reading Aid, Edwardian, C.1910

Antique Magnifying Glass, English, Brass, Optical Reading Aid, Edwardian, C.1910

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

This is an antique magnifying glass. An English, brass optical reading aid, dating to the Edwardian period, circa 1910. Perfect for the study or nook, with useful magnification of...

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Early 20th Century British Edwardian Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

20th Century 1918 Huge Parabolic Concave Mirror Lighthouse Mirror Optical Lens
20th Century 1918 Huge Parabolic Concave Mirror Lighthouse Mirror Optical Lens

20th Century 1918 Huge Parabolic Concave Mirror Lighthouse Mirror Optical Lens

By Anish Kapoor

Located in Lowestoft, GB

A very large concave mirror housed within its original copper bracing and lead back. The mirror is first quarter of the 20th of century in age. The mirror plate is in great con...

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1910s English Industrial Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Copper, Lead

1870s French Small Brass Telescope Small Antique Original Scientific Instrument
1870s French Small Brass Telescope Small Antique Original Scientific Instrument

1870s French Small Brass Telescope Small Antique Original Scientific Instrument

Located in Milan, IT

He showed it to his father and he fixed these lenses on a small board, making easier the observation, creating the first rudimentary instrument for optical approaching. But Lipperhey...

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1870s Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

Brass Telescope with Mahogany Handle, UK, Early 19th Century
Brass Telescope with Mahogany Handle, UK, Early 19th Century

Brass Telescope with Mahogany Handle, UK, Early 19th Century

Located in Milan, IT

London, a company active between 1806 and 1819 specialized in optical instruments and microscopes. The telescope is engraved with the words Best Improvid.

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1810s British Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

19th Century Brass 3 Draw Telescope Antique Maritime Navigation Instrument
19th Century Brass 3 Draw Telescope Antique Maritime Navigation Instrument

19th Century Brass 3 Draw Telescope Antique Maritime Navigation Instrument

Located in Milan, IT

He showed it to his father and he fixed these lenses on a small board, making easier the observation, creating the first rudimentary instrument for optical approaching. But Lipperhey...

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1870s Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

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19c French Antique Telescope with Stand
19c French Antique Telescope with Stand

19c French Antique Telescope with Stand

Sold

H 25 in W 18 in D 17 in

19c French Antique Telescope with Stand

Located in New Orleans, LA

An exceptional 19th-century brass telescope mounted on its original adjustable tabletop tripod stand. This fine optical instrument reflects the craftsmanship and scientific curiosity...

Category

19th Century French Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

Antique Optical Exam Instrument
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Antique Optical Exam Instrument

Sold

H 24 in W 15 in D 7 in

Antique Optical Exam Instrument

Located in San Francisco, CA

Interesting old eye instrument on tall brass stand.

Category

Early 20th Century Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass, Metal

Culpeper Compound Microscope
Culpeper Compound Microscope

Culpeper Compound Microscope

Sold

H 17.5 in W 7.75 in D 7.5 in

Culpeper Compound Microscope

Located in New Orleans, LA

Housed in its original oak pillar case and accompanied by Culpeper’s trade card bearing crossed daggers, the instrument exemplifies the golden age of British optical craftsmanship.

Category

18th Century English Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

Pair of 19th Century Concave & Convex Distortion Scientific Mirrors
Pair of 19th Century Concave & Convex Distortion Scientific Mirrors

Pair of 19th Century Concave & Convex Distortion Scientific Mirrors

Located in Lowestoft, GB

A very unusual pair of petite distortion mirrors, encased within their original oak frames with oxidised mirror plates, one mirror has a convex mirror plate the second a concave plat...

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Mid-19th Century English Victorian Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

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Magic Lantern Projector Lens, circa 1910.
Magic Lantern Projector Lens, circa 1910.

Magic Lantern Projector Lens, circa 1910.

Sold

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Magic Lantern Projector Lens, circa 1910.

Located in London, GB

A large lens encased in brass that sits on a newly made display stand. The lens was originally part of a magic lantern which was the earliest form of a slide projector. Magic lantern...

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1910s British Antique Optical Instruments

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Rare Mabeescope X-Ray Viewer

By Mabeescope

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Antique 1920's projector light for viewing x rays

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1920s American Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

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English Leather Covered Naval Telescope, circa 1850
English Leather Covered Naval Telescope, circa 1850

English Leather Covered Naval Telescope, circa 1850

Located in London, GB

An unusual English nineteenth century leather and brass single drawer hand held Naval signals telescope with a lens cap, sliding eyepiece cover and panel insert into the leather show...

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1850s British Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

Leather Covered Brass Naval Telescope, Circa 1910
Leather Covered Brass Naval Telescope, Circa 1910

Leather Covered Brass Naval Telescope, Circa 1910

Located in London, GB

A fine English early twentieth century brass single drawer hand held telescope with leather covering. Has sliding eyepiece lens cover. Circa 1910. Max length 87.5 cm/34½ inches. 2¼ ...

Category

1910s British Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

Nickel Plated Brass and Leather Naval Telescope, circa 1890
Nickel Plated Brass and Leather Naval Telescope, circa 1890

Nickel Plated Brass and Leather Naval Telescope, circa 1890

By Dolland

Located in London, GB

A single draw hand held telescope made in the style of the distinctive British Naval Officer of the Watch telescopes, signed Dollond London, circa 1890. A classic naval telescope,...

Category

1890s British Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

Leather Covered 'Flag' Telescope, circa 1890
Leather Covered 'Flag' Telescope, circa 1890

Leather Covered 'Flag' Telescope, circa 1890

By E.&E. Emanuel

Located in London, GB

An unusual English nineteenth century leather and nickel plated brass single drawer hand held Naval telescope that has sliding eyepiece lens cover, extending shade and a panel inset ...

Category

1890s British Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass, Nickel

19th Century William the IV Mahogany Connoisseur Gallery Magnifying Lens
19th Century William the IV Mahogany Connoisseur Gallery Magnifying Lens

19th Century William the IV Mahogany Connoisseur Gallery Magnifying Lens

Located in Lowestoft, GB

A mahogany gallery lens, circa 1835 in age, English in origin The wooden frame and handle are in very good condition, the lens has some wear/scuffs to the center These magnify...

Category

Early 19th Century English William IV Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

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19th Century George III Brass Bound Mahogany Connoisseur Gallery Magnifying Lens
19th Century George III Brass Bound Mahogany Connoisseur Gallery Magnifying Lens

19th Century George III Brass Bound Mahogany Connoisseur Gallery Magnifying Lens

Located in Lowestoft, GB

A mahogany and brass bound gallery lens, circa 1820 in age, English in origin. The piece is in all round good condition, some stabile splits, some elderly repairs, general wear to th...

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Early 19th Century English George III Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

Telescope Made of Brass and Leather Made in Manchester in the Early 1900s
Telescope Made of Brass and Leather Made in Manchester in the Early 1900s

Telescope Made of Brass and Leather Made in Manchester in the Early 1900s

Located in Milan, IT

He expanded the business to optical instruments and in 1868 took his brother, George Booth, into partnership and changed the company's name to Thomas Armstrong & Brother.

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Early 20th Century British Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

English brass telescope on tripod.
English brass telescope on tripod.

English brass telescope on tripod.

Located in San Francisco, CA

Original brass table tripod included with instrument. Optically sound.

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19th Century English Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

Imperial Standard Peck " County Of Derby " Bronze Measure by Bate Of London
Imperial Standard Peck " County Of Derby " Bronze Measure by Bate Of London

Imperial Standard Peck " County Of Derby " Bronze Measure by Bate Of London

Located in Essex, MA

By Bate, London. R.B Bate ran an optical and scientific instrument business during the first half of the 19th century in London.

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1830s English William IV Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Bronze

J. H. Steward Pocket Military Compass c.1890
J. H. Steward Pocket Military Compass c.1890

J. H. Steward Pocket Military Compass c.1890

Sold

H 3 in W 2.13 in D 0.75 in

J. H. Steward Pocket Military Compass c.1890

Located in Bath, GB

Steward Ltd: James Henry Steward (1817-1896) established his business in London in 1852 as a maker and retailer of optical, scientific, military and surveying instruments.

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1890s British Late Victorian Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

Antique Telescope, English, 3 Draw Refractor, Silberrad Aldgate, 19th Century
Antique Telescope, English, 3 Draw Refractor, Silberrad Aldgate, 19th Century

Antique Telescope, English, 3 Draw Refractor, Silberrad Aldgate, 19th Century

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

Good optics presenting a clear, sharp performance Parallel, mahogany primary barrel in good order Draw tubes in good order with smooth action Supplied with a London fine oak and b...

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Early 19th Century English Georgian Antique Optical Instruments

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1875s Brass Sextant Signed Negus New York Antique Marine Navigation Instrument
1875s Brass Sextant Signed Negus New York Antique Marine Navigation Instrument

1875s Brass Sextant Signed Negus New York Antique Marine Navigation Instrument

Located in Milan, IT

The sextant is an optical instrument used in astronomical navigation to measure the height of the stars above the horizon, in order to obtain the geographic coordinates relative to t...

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1870s Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

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Antique Nautical Telescope, Brass and Mahogany, First Half of the 19th Century
Antique Nautical Telescope, Brass and Mahogany, First Half of the 19th Century

Antique Nautical Telescope, Brass and Mahogany, First Half of the 19th Century

Located in Milan, IT

He showed it to his father and he fixed these lenses on a small board, making easier the observation, creating the first rudimentary instrument for optical approaching. But Lipperhey...

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1840s British Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

Antique Telescope, Tripod, Refractor, Terrestrial Astronomical T Cooke & Sons
Antique Telescope, Tripod, Refractor, Terrestrial Astronomical T Cooke & Sons

Antique Telescope, Tripod, Refractor, Terrestrial Astronomical T Cooke & Sons

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

Cooke & Sons Ltd of London & York, a respected name synonymous with high quality optical instruments. The optics are in good order with an achromatic object lens offering a crisp,...

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Early 20th Century English Edwardian Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

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Antique Nautical Telescope, Brass and Rope, Mid-19th Century
Antique Nautical Telescope, Brass and Rope, Mid-19th Century

Antique Nautical Telescope, Brass and Rope, Mid-19th Century

Located in Milan, IT

He showed it to his father and he fixed these lenses on a small board, making easier the observation, creating the first rudimentary instrument for optical approaching. But Lipperhey...

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1860s British Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

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1870s Small Brass and Leather French Telescope Antique Marine Navigation Tool
1870s Small Brass and Leather French Telescope Antique Marine Navigation Tool

1870s Small Brass and Leather French Telescope Antique Marine Navigation Tool

Located in Milan, IT

He showed it to his father and he fixed these lenses on a small board, making easier the observation, creating the first rudimentary instrument for optical approaching. But Lipperhey...

Category

1870s Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Brass

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H 38.19 in W 42.13 in D 1.97 in

Arts & Crafts Copper Fire Surround

Located in London, GB

A spectacular Arts & Crafts copper fire surround. Riveted and repoussé decorated with smoke and flames. Circa 1900, England. H 97 W 107 cm Opening H 72 W 40 cm

Category

Early 20th Century English Arts and Crafts Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Copper

Antique 1897 American Waltham 14K Gold Seaside 7J 6s Pocket Watch & Chain
Antique 1897 American Waltham 14K Gold Seaside 7J 6s Pocket Watch & Chain

Antique 1897 American Waltham 14K Gold Seaside 7J 6s Pocket Watch & Chain

$2,100Sale Price|30% Off

H 2.5 in W 1.75 in D 0.375 in

Antique 1897 American Waltham 14K Gold Seaside 7J 6s Pocket Watch & Chain

By Waltham Watch Co

Located in Dayton, OH

Antique 1897 Waltham hunting style gold pocket watch. Movement - American Waltham Watch Company - Safety Barrel - 8119314 - Grade Seaside - Model 1890 - 6s - 7 jewels. White face wi...

Category

Late 19th Century American Victorian Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Gold

Art Nouveau "Vase with Water Plants and Bats" by Paul Dachsel for RStK Amphora
Art Nouveau "Vase with Water Plants and Bats" by Paul Dachsel for RStK Amphora

Art Nouveau "Vase with Water Plants and Bats" by Paul Dachsel for RStK Amphora

By Amphora, Paul Dachsel

Located in Palm Beach, FL

Note: We highly recommend shipping through 1stDibs for its cost effectiveness, full insurance coverage, and reliable handling. While standard parcel services are an option, the defau...

Category

Early 1900s Austrian Art Nouveau Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Earthenware

Antique Extremely Rare 16th Century German Executioner’s Sword- “Richtschwert”
Antique Extremely Rare 16th Century German Executioner’s Sword- “Richtschwert”

Antique Extremely Rare 16th Century German Executioner’s Sword- “Richtschwert”

Located in Doha, QA

A rare and evocative 16th-century German Executioner’s Sword (Richtschwert), forged in Passau, one of the preeminent centers of Renaissance blade craftsmanship. Passau was renowned f...

Category

16th Century German Renaissance Antique Optical Instruments

Materials

Iron

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Antique Optical Instruments For Sale on 1stDibs

Find a variety of antique optical instruments available on 1stDibs. Frequently made of glass, metal and brass, all antique optical instruments available were constructed with great care. There are all kinds of antique optical instruments available, from those produced as long ago as the 19th Century to those made as recently as the 20th Century. Victorian, Industrial and Georgian antique optical instruments are consistently popular styles. Bardou & Son, Bausch & Lomb and D. McGregor & Co. each produced beautiful antique optical instruments that are worth considering.

Finding the Right Collectibles-curiosities for You

Antique and vintage collectibles and curiosities can bring whimsy and wonder to any interior. 

Decorating with old scientific instruments, historical memorabilia and vintage musical instruments, as well as other authentic collectibles and curiosities that can be found on 1stDibs, presents an opportunity to create a unique, natural history museum-like atmosphere in your home that can provoke conversation as often as it pays tribute to how far we’ve come in understanding our world. 

And bringing collectibles and curiosities into your space is actually on trend — Wunderkammern, or curiosity cabinets, were all the rage in Europe during the 1500s and continued to have adherents there and in the U.S. in the following centuries. Today, however, they’re experiencing a real surge in popularity and influencing how many interior designers are furnishing and decorating homes — combining contemporary with antique, scientific with tribal, earthly with extraterrestrial, Les Lalanne tables with Flemish tapestries.

The original Wunderkammern were entire rooms filled with objects demonstrating their owners’ worldly knowledge: A proper one included artificiala or preciosa (objets d’art); naturalia (such as skeletons, shells, minerals); exotica (taxidermy or dried plants); and scientifica (scientific instruments), frequently alongside religious relics and ancient artifacts.

Pay tribute to a history of rich and diverse musical traditions that have taken shape all over the world by decorating your home with a collection of antique and vintage musical instruments — with a little help from strong hanging wire or some wall hooks, vintage brass instruments such as a gong, French horn or trumpet can help elevate a home office or complement the efforts you’ve made to ensure a welcoming vibe in your home’s entryway. Bells or antique wind instruments can add provocative metallic contrasts to dark woods as tabletop decorative objects.  

Create an intriguing focal point with Georgian scientific instruments, such as stick barometers with mahogany cases or lacquered brass telescopes. These items stem from an era named for the monarchies of the four King Georges, who ruled England in succession starting in 1714 (plus King William’s reign, which lasted until 1837). Just as there was beautiful jewelry produced during the period that today is coveted by collectors, there is much to be found in the collectibles and curiosities realm too.

Wanderlust, nostalgia and a shared love of good design are contributing factors to certain trends in decorating — just as vintage trunks and luggage have reappeared as furniture or home accents in a bedroom or foyer, decorating with globes, maps or nautical objects is similarly rooted in the allure of travel and a penchant for the stylish finishing touch that collectibles bring to our homes.

Find a wide range of antique and vintage collectibles and curiosities on 1stDibs.

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