'Anhydric' Electric incubator for laboratory cultures by Charles Hearson & Co Ltd., 1900-1960.

Anhydric incubators like this are used for storing laboratory samples or cultures while they develop. The cultures need to be kept dry and at a constant temperature, often a low one, in order to develop or preserve them. The equipment is needed because the scientists need to know that temperature changes are not effecting the samples. This wooden incubator features an inner glass door, both for extra insulation, and so the samples can be observed without affecting the temperature. It is powered by electricity. The incubator was made by Charles Hearson and Company Limited of Bermondsey, London, England.