Credit: © The Royal Society
Image number: RS.8460
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Compound microscope
Date
ca. 1843
Creator - Organisation
Powell & Lealand, Instrument maker
Object type
Archive reference number
Material
Subject
Content object
Description
A compound microscope manufactured by Powell & Lealand. A cylindrical limb extends from the tripod base, supporting the optical components, including various lenses and the viewing stage. Two arms extend from this limb, supporting the ocular tube.
The rear legs of the tripod inscribed: 'Royal' and 'Society'.
In 1842 the Royal Society's Microscope Committee offered a prize of £100 for the best compound achromatic microscope to be delivered to their rooms in Somerset House by May 1843. The prize was awarded in June 1843 to 'Mr Powell', and this is thought to be the prize-winning instrument.
Hugh Powell (1799-1883) British instrument maker was not a Fellow of the Royal Society. In 1841 he established the instrument making company Powell & Lealand with his brother in-law Peter Lealand (fl.1840s-50s). Created in 1842-3, this microscope is believed to be a product of both men's efforts.
The rear legs of the tripod inscribed: 'Royal' and 'Society'.
In 1842 the Royal Society's Microscope Committee offered a prize of £100 for the best compound achromatic microscope to be delivered to their rooms in Somerset House by May 1843. The prize was awarded in June 1843 to 'Mr Powell', and this is thought to be the prize-winning instrument.
Hugh Powell (1799-1883) British instrument maker was not a Fellow of the Royal Society. In 1841 he established the instrument making company Powell & Lealand with his brother in-law Peter Lealand (fl.1840s-50s). Created in 1842-3, this microscope is believed to be a product of both men's efforts.
Object history
Deposited with the Society by Powell & Lealand in 1843.
Associated place