Ophthalmoscope

Cased Liebreich ophthalmoscope with 5 small coccius glass lenses and 2 glass condensing lenses. Non-illuminated ophthalmoscope has concave mirror in round head with central sight hole.Hinged coccius clip attached to hold lenses. Black metal head, silver coloured mount and black turned timber handle. Case has black leather outer lining and purple velvet and satin inner linings. Case hinged with snap closure.

Inscriptions and Markings

On front of case:"LIEBREICH'S OPHTHALMOSCOPE"

4 of 5 Coccius lenses engraved with powers: "8-", "12-", "-01", "+01"

Size

case: 13.9cmW 2.2cmH 6.1cmD

Historical Information

Richard Liebreich of Germany invented his design of ophthalmoscope in 1855. This example is complete in its case with Coccius lenses and condensing lenses. Early ophthalmoscopes required an external source of illumination, eg lamp or candle, and light was reflected into the eye to be examined by the mirror on the ophthalmoscope. A condensing lens was held in front of the patient to view the image. A Coccius lens could be clipped in to the holder to counter ametropia of user or subject.

Significance

This Liebreich ophthalmoscope is significant for the collection as it is the only complete example of the three held in the collection.

Melbourne / explore region

21 items search our collection