18th Century Nuremberg Type Microscope

German, c.1800, unmarked, of typical form constructed of polished turned fruitwood, hinged mirror with turned tripod legs, simple sprung slide holder, pasteboard body with faux leather covering, with 2 pasteboard drawer tubes, eyepiece with turned wooden cover, height 33cm tall Footnote: Nuremberg microscopes represent a unique category of microscopes distinguished by their particular stylistic traits, originating from regions in southern Germany, specifically Bavaria and the "Black Forest" area of Baden-Württemberg. This region has a rich history of craftsmanship, particularly in woodworking, with centuries-old traditions of toy manufacturing. Nuremberg, in particular, gained renown in the 16th century as the "City of Makers of the Compass" due to its fine engineering traditions. Initially known for producing portable sundials, Nuremberg evolved into a hub for toy and optical instrument production in the 18th century, with a thriving toy district near Bavaria. It seems that alongside simple refractory telescopes, manufacturers also offered these modest microscopes. These microscopes were designed to be lightweight and affordable, crafted primarily from materials like light fruitwood and cardboard. Unlike the professional-grade brass instruments of the era, Nuremberg microscopes prioritized simplicity and accessibility over complex mechanics and optics. They catered to a different market segment, providing basic magnification capabilities without the hefty price tag associated with high-end instruments.