Complete Antique F. Cox Drum Microscope in Excellent Condition. England, 1850

This gorgeous antique instrument is a Victorian drum microscope, made in London in 1850. The microscope is made of lacquered brass and remains in good condition, preserving almost all its original component parts. It comes in a fine solid wooden box, also from the same period. The case stores a series of accessories, samples, lenses and other articles needed to operate with the instrument. The set includes a glass ampoule designed to view complete specimens (for example, insects). It works fine and still can be used to view samples and other elements. At the base of the sample pate we can see an engraved inscription in fine cursive lettering: F. Cox Newgate Sb. London. These words indicate that the microscope was made by Frederick Cox, an English optician and distributor with a workshop in London who lived and worked during the 19th century, from 1844 to 1871. F. Cox also manufactured other items such as magic lanterns and telescopes. The inscription is well preserved and looks complete and legible. The rest of the brass component parts that make up this interesting microscope are also in good condition, showing the subtle patina left in their surface by the trace of time and the use. As stated before, the microscope comes with a set of accessories that increase even more its great interest. We can see a wooden stand with lenses and eyepieces, a small wooden box with a little translucent glass pane, the ampoule for the specimens and some tools to prepare samples. There is also a small leather-covered case with a nickel-plated metal tool with a round dark glass. The box where the set is stored is made of solid wood, with a lovely dark brown color and black veneer. It is in good condition. This stunning antique drum microscope is a good example of the beauty and the quality of English Victorian optic instruments. Measurements: Width: 2.5 in / 6.5 cm. Height: 12 in / 30.5 cm.