Imported smaller case-mounted French microscope, c.1844
(Attributed to the Parisian optician Noël François Joseph Buron, Rue des Trois Pavillons No. 10)
The microscope is 9.5 inches tall measuring from the
top of the case. The height can be extended using the
draw-tube. Focusing is by rack and pinion movement of
the tube. Below the stage is an aperture wheel and a
single sided mirror. The microscope is equipped with
a triple button objective, one eyepiece, a stage
condenser on an articulated arm, a few remaining dissecting
tools, and some slides.
On the basis of the
illustrations and descriptions shown in the 1844
catalog of the Parisian optician Noël François Joseph Buron, Rue
des Trois Pavillons No. 10, it can be
surmised that this is the firm that manufactured the
microscope shown on this page. The catalog states
that the firm specifically made instruments for
export. Two case-mounted microscopes were offered in
the catalog. This is an example of the smaller model.
An example of the
larger model, which was again imported by McAllister & Co., is also represented in this collection.
The McAllister family
was involved in the instrument/optical trade since
the late 18th century beginning with the business of
John McAllister in Philadelphia (see: the Family Business Timeline also
The McAllister Family). The firm
used the name McAllister & Co. during the period
1836-1853. Subsequently, the McAllisters had shops in
both Philadelphia and New York. During the early
years, the firm did not make their own microscopes,
but instead, imported instruments made by European
firms.