An Original 'Society of the Arts' Microscope

English, c.1855, plaque to the rear of he foot reads'R. FIELD & SON OPTICIANS NEW STREET BIRMINGHAM', the microscope on a cast iron base finished in enamel, plano-concave mirror wheel of stops, stage with slide, rack and pinion focus with screw fine focusing original French polished cabient

Footnote: The mid-19th century marked a period of rapid scientific advancement, with microscopy at the forefront of biological and medical research. However, the quality and accessibility of microscopes varied significantly, often limiting their usefulness in scientific inquiry. The Society of Arts, recognizing the potential of improved microscopic design to promote scientific discovery, initiated a competition for a manufacturer to make a cheap but reliable microscope. The design chosen was the one produced by R Field & Son, it went on to be made by many manufactures and was always known as the 'Society of the Arts' pattern.