Antique Giroux Foldable Hand Ophthalmoscope. France, 19th Century

Outstanding antique Giroux foldable hand ophthalmoscope made in France in the 19th century, complete and in its original storing case. This wonderful optical instrument is foldable and adjustable, and includes four interchangeable mirrors. The first ophthalmoscope was designed by Hermann von Helmholtz in 1851: a device composed of different lenses and mirrors whose function is providing light inside the eye so it goes through the pupil and the eyes lens. This way, the doctor can examine the retina and diagnose possible pathologies. The ophthalmoscope that we can see in these images is made of black-painted metal and bears an engraved inscription: OPTHALMOSCOPE PARENT GIROUX PARIS, and the number 647. The black metal body mounts a wheel that makes it possible to change the lenses; it is screwed to a foldable steel bracket. The instrument and the accessory set are stored in a black-leather and metal case with clip closure. The leather covering is well preserved, though it does show some slight signs of wear. This antique Giroux foldable hand ophthalmoscope, complete and in its storing case, will delight an optician with a taste for antiques or a collector of ancient medical tools. Dimensions (Case): Width: 3.95 in / 10 cm. Depth: 2.56 in / 6.5 cm.