Compound microscope by Bausch & Lomb, 4/4 19th C.

Signed: JAS.W.QUEEN&CO.
PHILADELPHIA

Case: 26 x 14,5 x 16 cm, height 24 cm

The tripod base of this fascinating instrument sustains two pillars. The curved limb ends with an arm where is the rack and pinion mechanism to adjuste the body tube for focus, controlled by mean of two knurled knobs. Under the circular stage there is no condenser or other device to control the light beam, only the two sided mirror on a gimbal.

This microscope is a rare Bausch & Lomb "Library Microscope" as identically pictured in a ca. 1886-1896 Bausch & Lomb catalogue. To further add to its rarity it is signed by the seller, James Queen, Philadelphia. The serial number of the instrument, 9844, is imprinted on the inside of the box edge as was customary with Bausch & Lomb before they began placing serial numbers on the actual microscopes. The catalogue picture is shown in Gordon Reithmeier's book on Bausch & Lomb microscopes, 1997. The microscope is in original pristine condition retaining all its lacquer. The original case is missing the carry handle. This microscope is a clear indication that Bausch & Lomb made microscopes to be sold under the James Queen label and without the Bausch & Lomb name.