Hooke's compound microscope and its illuminating system, 1665.

Full size copy of Robert Hooke's (1635-1703) original compound microscope, as described in his book 'Micrographia' (1665) - the first detailed and illustrated account of a compound microscope. This microscope was a great advance on any that preceded it, and was the basis of the design of many subsequent makers. It is notable particularly for its ball-and-socket joint and the use of a field-lens. Specimens to be examined are illuminated by an oil lamp and a globe full of liquid.