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Spyglass telescope
The barrel of this Galilean telescope is covered in rayskin and the single draw tube is made of silvered brass, as are the other fittings. The original red leather case also survives. The maker's name is inscribed on the draw tube: 'RAMSDEN LONDON'. Jesse Ramsden (1735-1800) was one of the leading London instrument makers in the late 18th-century.
Telescopes like this were sold as personal accessories that could fit in the pocket, rather than as instruments for scientific observation.
Telescopes like this were sold as personal accessories that could fit in the pocket, rather than as instruments for scientific observation.
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Object Details
| ID: | NAV1537 |
|---|---|
| Collection: | Astronomical and navigational instruments |
| Type: | Spyglass telescope |
| Display location: | Display - Maritime London Gallery |
| Creator: | Ramsden, Jesse |
| Date made: | circa 1790 |
| Credit: | National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London, Caird Collection |
| Measurements: | Length: 64 mm (closed), 92 mm (focused, approx); Diameter: 45 mm (max) |
| Parts: | Spyglass telescope |