Scientific Instruments
1970s Austrian Space Age Vintage Scientific Instruments
Plastic
Late 19th Century Antique Scientific Instruments
Steel
1930s Italian Vintage Scientific Instruments
Paper
1930s Italian Vintage Scientific Instruments
Brass
Early 20th Century English Industrial Scientific Instruments
Steel
1970s Dutch Space Age Vintage Scientific Instruments
Metal, Stainless Steel, Chrome
1970s American Vintage Scientific Instruments
Paper
1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Scientific Instruments
Leather, Wood, Antler
1970s Italian Space Age Vintage Scientific Instruments
Resin
1930s British Sporting Art Vintage Scientific Instruments
Paper
20th Century English Other Scientific Instruments
Metal
1970s American Post-Modern Vintage Scientific Instruments
Aluminum
Mid-20th Century Industrial Scientific Instruments
Iron
Early 20th Century German Rustic Scientific Instruments
Antler, Wood
1970s Space Age Vintage Scientific Instruments
Agate, Alabaster
1970s Italian Space Age Vintage Scientific Instruments
Chrome
1970s Italian Space Age Vintage Scientific Instruments
Chrome
Early 1900s Italian Antique Scientific Instruments
Brass
1950s Czech Vintage Scientific Instruments
Metal
Early 20th Century American Art Deco Scientific Instruments
Metal
1970s Japanese Space Age Vintage Scientific Instruments
Chrome
Early 20th Century American Industrial Scientific Instruments
Iron
Mid-20th Century English Art Deco Scientific Instruments
Bakelite
20th Century German Post-Modern Scientific Instruments
Steel
Early 20th Century American Industrial Scientific Instruments
Steel
Early 20th Century American Art Deco Scientific Instruments
Iron
Mid-20th Century European Mid-Century Modern Scientific Instruments
Metal
1950s German Vintage Scientific Instruments
1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Scientific Instruments
Metal
Vintage, New and Antique Scientific Instruments
Decorating with vintage, new and antique scientific 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.
The Age of Discovery (or the Age of Exploration) refers to a period during the 15th to 18th centuries that saw Europeans taking to the high seas to explore, trade and conquer various regions of the world. What we know about geography, the advancement of sea vessels and the development of scientific instruments all broadened significantly during this time.
With every new finding about our world, scientists invented tools to measure and record. While many of these objects are now obsolete, they are essentially works of art and have a rich history. Scientific instruments of a bygone era represent how far science and technology have advanced.
If you’re interested in introducing antique scientific instruments and tools to your decor to add contrast or draw attention to otherwise unexplored corners of your living room or dining room, there are many options to consider as far as textures and colors go. Like any curious decorative object that draws attention to your home library or mantel, vintage scientific instruments will likely add spirit to any conversation that might take place over cocktails or dinner.
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.
Mid-century modern scientific instruments also capture a period of rapid progress, representing groundbreaking discoveries that defined the 20th century. Wouldn’t antique anatomical models of the 1950s pair well with your eye-catching abstract paintings, George Nelson clock or Florence Knoll sofa?
Whether you’re looking for a way to showcase your passion for chemistry or aviation or are making room in your foyer for a breathtaking industrial-style electronic time tower manufactured by Patek Philippe, 1stDibs offers a collection of vintage, new and antique scientific instruments that includes topographic tools, laboratory equipment and more.