Historical information

A pocket magnifying glass was a versatile scientific tool. It was ideal for situations in which the specimen was too small to be observed under a magnifying glass and access to a larger microscope would have been impossible.It could be taken on field expeditions and used to examine botanical, zoological and mineralogical specimens.
This small magnifying glass could be used for examining specimens of plants or rocks or jewellery.

Significance

Simple,pocket microscopes had a significant impact on the the general public’s appreciation of both science and the natural world by making the microscopic world accessible and exciting.

Physical description

A small brass pocket magnifying glass with resting arm. The cardboard box is blue / black in colour.