Pritchard-Type Microscope

Pictured is an achromatic microscope manufactured by Andrew Pritchard, an optician and instrument maker of the mid-1800s.

Joseph Jackson Lister, Lord Lister’s father, was a wine merchant with an interest in the study of optics. His creation of a more accurate achromatic lens allowed for higher resolution viewing, and earned himself a fellowship in the Royal Society. Achromatic lenses focus light of different wavelengths in the same plane, hence producing a sharper microscopic image. This development in microscopic technology was truly revolutionary.

c. 1830s

2003/26

Height: 52.3 cm

Brass; glass