






Model of Leeuwenhoek's simple microscope, from Leyden
This type of microscope was invented and used by Anton van Leeuwenhoek (1632-1723). Considered the “father of microscopy”, he constructed all his own equipment using lenses he had made himself. At his death, Leeuwenhoek left 247 microscopes and 172 lenses. Only nine microscopes have survived. These can magnify up to 200 times and were of a better quality than professionally made microscopes of the time.
The specimen to be studied is placed on the pin and is brought into focus on the small lens by adjusting the two screws. The glass lens is fixed between two brass plates. The microscope would have been difficult and uncomfortable to use as the eye would have to be placed very close to the lens to make any observations. Lighting the specimen would also have been difficult.
On display
Science Museum: Medicine: The Wellcome Galleries
If you are visiting to see this object, please contact us in advance to make sure that it will be on display.
Related people
Details
- Category:
- Microscopy (Wellcome)
- Object Number:
- A500644
- type:
- microscope
- taxonomy:
-
- furnishing and equipment
- tools & equipment
- optical instrument
- furnishing and equipment
- tools & equipment
- optical instrument
- credit:
- Laage, T.
Cite this page
Rights
We encourage the use and reuse of our collection data.
Data in the title, made, maker and details fields are released under Creative Commons Zero
Descriptions and all other text content are licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 licence
Download
Download catalogue entry as json
View manifest in IIIF viewer
Add to Animal Crossing Art Generator
Download manifest IIIF
Our records are constantly being enhanced and improved, but please note that we cannot guarantee the accuracy of any information shown on this website.