Antique C. Verick Brass Microscope. Pharmaceutical Prize. France, 1890

Antique C. Verick Brass Microscope. Pharmaceutical Prize. France, 1890 Extraordinary antique French microscope manufactured in 1890 by the prestigious firm C. Verick, one of the most highly regarded makers of scientific instruments in nineteenth century Europe. The piece is entirely made of brass, with a solid, elegant and perfectly balanced construction, and presents an exceptional state of preservation, practically like new, something very uncommon for instruments of this type and period. The microscope retains all its original components and has not been restored. It preserves its natural patina, its even shine and the sharpness of all mechanical adjustments. The focusing system operates smoothly, without play or blockage, and all moving parts respond correctly. The stage, optical tube, controls and articulated lower mirror are complete and fully functional. It is accompanied by its original custom made wooden case, with specific compartments for each component. The case retains its original lock and key, and the closing system works correctly. The interior preserves the original lining in good condition, reinforcing the character of a complete and well cared for ensemble from its origin. It includes two interchangeable eyepieces, three original objectives and several additional accessories for the use of the microscope, all period items and perfectly compatible. This set makes it a very complete microscope, representative of the high technical level of late nineteenth century French optics, designed for demanding professional use. The most relevant and truly singular element of this microscope is the inscription engraved on the base, perfectly legible and original, which reads as follows: “Association des anciens Pharmaciens adjoints des Hôpitaux de Lyon. Concours de 1892. J. Frenaud, Lauréat.” “Association of former assistant pharmacists of the hospitals of Lyon. Competition of 1892. J. Frenaud, Award Winner.” This inscription is not merely decorative or commemorative. It indicates that the microscope was awarded as an institutional prize to J. Frenaud after being declared laureate in the concours of 1892. In late nineteenth century France, concours were official high level examinations, particularly demanding, linked to advanced scientific training and access to or recognition within hospital and academic institutions. The reference to the Association des anciens Pharmaciens adjoints des Hôpitaux de Lyon places the piece within a very specific and highly prestigious context. Hospital assistant pharmacists formed part of the scientific elite of their time, with solid training in chemistry, analysis and microscopy, disciplines essential to hospital practice. Lyon was also one of the main medical and scientific centers in France, which further reinforces the level of recognition granted. The presence of this engraved dedication on the base adds a clear and uncommon added value. This is not only a well preserved antique microscope, but a piece with documented personal history, linked to a specific professional and a precise academic achievement, something especially appreciated in the collecting of historical scientific instruments. The overall condition is outstanding. It shows no significant dents, losses or deterioration and retains all its original components. It is a true collector’s piece, ideal for display in a showcase, for a demanding collector or as a very special gift connected to the history of science, pharmacy and medicine. Because of its maker, its virtually impeccable condition and its documented academic dedication, this microscope clearly stands out from typical examples on the market. It is a piece with real technical, historical and human value, difficult to find at this level of preservation and completeness. Especially attractive for collectors of antique scientific instruments, both for the reputation of the Verick firm and for the unique character of its inscription. The state of preservation, without restoration and with full functionality, further enhances its interest. The presence of the original case with key and all accessories makes it an exceptional set, very difficult to replicate. Measurements: 31 cm, 12.20 in. History of C. Verick The firm C. Verick was one of the most prestigious Parisian manufacturers of scientific instruments during the nineteenth century. Established on rue des Écoles, in an area closely linked to the Sorbonne and the main academic centers of the French capital, the firm specialized in microscopes and optical devices intended for laboratories, hospitals, universities and professionals in medicine and pharmacy. Verick microscopes enjoyed an excellent reputation for the quality of their materials, the precision of their mechanisms and the reliability of their optical systems. They were not domestic instruments, but professional tools conceived for rigorous scientific work. Microscopes signed by firms such as Verick ranked among the most highly valued on the French market, competing with other major European manufacturers. Today, well preserved C. Verick microscopes, complete and with original cases, are especially sought after by collectors, museums and scholars of the history of science. Those that also retain institutional inscriptions or named dedications, such as this example, reach an even higher level of interest, as they allow their use, academic context and historical trajectory to be documented with complete clarity.