Microscope Museum

Collection of antique microscopes and other scientific instruments

 

Hand spectroscope by Husbands (Bristol)

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Hand spectroscope engraved with “Husbands, Bristol”, probably dated to the late 19th or early 20th century. These instruments are used to analyse the spectral composition of light. Henry Husbands and William Clarke ran an optician and scientific instruments business in Bristol, England, as partners between 1858 and 1870. After this, Henry, alone or with his sons, continued the business, which became “Husbands & Sons” in 1893. Henry died in 1900 but his sons Henry James, James Wessen and Alfred Witchell Husbands continued the business until 1910, formally dissolving the partnership that year.