Imported larger case-mounted French microscope, c.1844
(Attributed to the Parisian optician Buron, Rue des Trois Pavillons No. 10)
The microscope is 11 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 stage. Below the stage is an aperture wheel and a
double sided mirror. The microscope is equipped with a
triple button objective, two eyepieces, a tube mounted
stage condenser on an articulated arm, a selection of
dissecting tools, and some slides.
On the basis of the
illustration and description shown in the 1844
catalog of the Parisian optician 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. In addition to a horizontal microscope,
two upright case-mounted microscopes were offered in
the catalog. This is an example of the
larger model. An example of the
smaller model, which was also imported by McAllister & Co., is also represented in this
collection. Another microscope, identical to the one
shown on this page, has been found with the
inscription "Nachet, Paris" on the tube. The
microscope dates early in Nachet's career and it
therefore is not clear if Nachet actually contributed
to the manufacture of that instrument or just
retailed it under his own name.
Another similar microscope was observed with the signature L’Ingr Chevallier, Opticien du Roi, Tour de l’horloge du Palais a Paris.
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.
The McAllister & Co. shop at 48 Chestnut St., Philadelphia