The Microscope of Antoni Van Leeuwenhoek (replica)

In Use: circa 1668-1723

The long thrumbscrew controls vertical motion of the specimen held on the pointed spike. The horizontal movement is in an arc. Finally the spike can rotate via a tiny knob. The specimen can therefore be partially rotated. The finish on this microscope, like the surviving examples by Van Leeuwenhoek himself, has an oxidized brass patina. In use the microscope must be held very close to the eye. Since it is held in the hand, one must be able to hold it steady.