Brass microscope by Zentmayer – c1876

 A very fine American Histological Model by Zentmayer.  It is signed on the stand, “J Zentmayer, Phila, Pat’d Aug 15 76.”  The instrument is 12” tall in closed position.  It has rack and pinion coarse focus, and micrometer knob fine focus.  All rack work in excellent operating condition. The optical system is comprised of three unmarked objectives and two eyepieces.  Though unmarked, the lenses appear to be a 2”, 1”, and Ό”.  The 2” and 1” produce very clear images of good contrast.  The contrast on the Ό” lens is low, possibly caused by cement separation.  The substage tailpiece assembly swings laterally for oblique illumination.  The substage mirror is plano-concave in very fine condition.  The substage condenser is a stop housing with no stops.  The microscope is finished in lacquered brass with a machined base.  The lacquer coverage is complete and in very fine condition with only minimal wear.  The microscope is housed in its own hand dove tailed walnut case with brass carry handle, lock and key, and interior accessory drawer.  The case is in overall excellent usable condition.  This is a very fine example of a Zentmayer microscope with its unique, sculptural base and distinctive, machined foot giving it an architecturally pleasing profile.

Item 1221