Credit: © The Royal Society
Image number: RS.8486
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A terrella
Date
ca.1661
Object type
Archive reference number
Dimensions
height: 120mm
Subject
Content object
Description
A terrella or 'little earth’: a naturally occuring magentized stone sphere, intended o simulate the magnetic field of the earth. Together with a metal presentation stand and plaque.
Plaque inscribed: 'TERRELLA 17th Century Loaned by Royal Society'. Plaque installed by the Science Museum during a period of long term loan.
Plaque inscribed: 'TERRELLA 17th Century Loaned by Royal Society'. Plaque installed by the Science Museum during a period of long term loan.
Object history
Presented to the Royal Society in January 1661 by King Charles II [MS/416, '11. Minerals, Earth, Stones Bitumens', folio 173].
Associated place