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In 1956 Federico Allodi published the results of a campaign of research and studies on the Galilean microscopes fabricated in wood and cardboard in the Florence Museum of the History of Science, at the time directed by Andrea Corsini.

Three instruments were classified as Galilean:

Inv.

Components

Name

Location n.

1309

Two parts without lenses

Body-tube of compound microscope

VIII.1

3247

Two parts, one objective, leg

Compound microscope

VIII.3

3429

Four parts, three lenses, leg

Galilean compound microscope

VIII.2

 

The instrument listed in the inventory under number 3429 was analyzed in particular. Both the mechanical part and the optical part were studied, applying four methods of investigation:

  • 1) photography;
  • 2) endoscope examination;
  • 3) radiographic examination;
  • 4) microphotography.

According to Allodi, "We may conclude that No. 3429 is a true Galilean microscope, which combines the perfected features of the other models of the time, although for its fabrication Galileo would have made use of the services of specialized workers in iron, paper, and wood, as well as goldsmiths, as was necessary and customary at the time."

This important instrument is still today indicated as "Galilean microscope", although more recent studies show that the famous instrument-maker Giuseppe Campani (1635-1715) should probably be credited with its construction. Accordingly, it was probably fabricated in the second half of the 17th century.

 

X-ray image and photograph of Galilean microscope no. 3429 in the Institute and Museum of the History of Science, Florence.

Fragment of a moth's head. Microphotograph taken using Galilean microscope no. 3429 in the Institute and Museum of the History of Science, Florence.

Changes in the myocardium according to Allodi. Microphotograph taken using Galilean microscope no. 3429 in the Institute and Museum of the History of Science, Florence.

 
Biographies      
Galileo Galilei  
Giuseppe Campani
Instruments    
Compound microscope, Galilean (inv. 3429)  
Compound microscope (inv. 3247)
Compound microscope, part of body-tube (inv. 1309)      
Glossary      
Compound microscope  
Microscope parts
 
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