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