Refracting telescope on equatorial mounting, 1790-1810

Refracting telescope of 2 3/4 inch aperture and 18 inch focal length by Dollond, London, on an adjustable equatorial mount with a fitted mahogany case. Accessories include, 4 eyepieces, a wedge and an ivory annulus that fits to the objective lens for illuminating cross-hairs.

Dated to the early nineteenth century, this brass telescope was made by the London instrument makers, Peter and George Dollond. The instrument has a 2 ¾-inch lens and is carried on an equatorial mount of the type first introduced by the Sissons family of instrument makers. Used in conjunction with a table, the equatorial stand could be made horizontal using the three adjusting screws and the pair of spirit levels. Once adjusted, objects could be located using the circular setting scales. A telescope this quality would have only been affordable to wealthy individual who had an interest in astronomy.

Details

Category:
Astronomy
Object Number:
1912-204
Materials:
metal, ivory, glass, mahogany and complete
Measurements:
overall (assembled): 630 mm x 500 mm x 400 mm,
type:
telescope - refracting, equatorial instrument and refracting telescope
credit:
Pearson, H.

Parts

Case for refracting telescope of 2 3/4-inch aperture and 18 inch focal length by Dollond

Case for refracting telescope of 2 3/4-inch aperture and 18 inch focal length by Dollond

Case for refracting telescope of 2 3/4-inch aperture and 18 inch focal length by Dollond, London, on an adjustable equatorial mount

Measurements:
: 330 x 750 x 280 mm
Materials:
mahogany and fittings, brass
Object Number:
1912-204 Pt1
type:
components , storage boxes and instruments
Refracting telescope of 2 3/4 inch aperture and 18 inch focal length by Dollond

Refracting telescope of 2 3/4 inch aperture and 18 inch focal length by Dollond

Refracting telescope of 2 3/4 inch aperture and 18 inch focal length by Dollond, London, on an adjustable equatorial mount. Accessories include, 4 eyepieces, a wedge and an ivory annulus that fits to the objective lens for illuminating cross-hairs.