Who invented the reflector telescope in the 17th century?

Sir Isaac Newton invented the reflector telescope in the 17th century. He created it as a replacement for the refracting telescope, which tended to have poor optics. Find a collection of antique and vintage telescopes on 1stDibs from some of the world’s top sellers.

Who was one of the most important portrait painters of the 19th century?

British artist John Singer Sargent was one of the most important portrait painters of the 19th century. Other notable portraitists from the period include James Abbott McNeill Whistler, Eugène Delacroix, Théodore Géricault, Gustave Courbet, Édouard Manet, Mary Cassat, Claude Monet and Pierre-Auguste Renoir. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of portrait paintings.

What art style was used by the 19th-century French painters?

The French painters of the 19th century worked in two styles. Neoclassicism dominated the first half of the century, and Impressionism was the most common style during the second half. On 1stDibs, you can find a variety of French paintings.

Was there glass in the 16th century?

Yes, the history of glass-making goes back much further than the 1600s. It’s believed that they were making glass in different parts of the world at least 3,600 years ago, maybe even longer. During the late Bronze Age in Egypt and in Western Asia, glassmarking advanced significantly and was manipulated extensively to produce vessels, jewelry, and works of art. Shop a range of antique and vintage glass on 1stDibs.

Were there cannons in the 16th century?

Yes, there were cannons in the 16th century. The history of the weapon dates back to 12th-century China. Historical records suggest that the first cannons appeared in Europe during the Islamic wars in Iberia in the 13th century. Find a range of antique cannons on 1stDibs.

How do you identify 18th-century furniture?

To identify 18th-century furniture, you can research your piece in the context of the prevailing styles of the period or consult a certified appraiser or experienced antique dealer. To identify your item on your own, look over it for maker's marks, such as carvings, stamps, brands and labels. Researching the marking can help you determine the maker of your piece, and from there, you can search further to learn more about your particular item. Without a maker's mark, the best approach is to consider the characteristics of the dominant furniture styles during the 18th century. In England, these included William and Mary, Queen Anne, Georgian, Chippendale, Hepplewhite and Sheraton. Some French furniture styles of the 1700s include Louis XV, Louis XVI and Régence. Find a diverse assortment of 18th-century furniture on 1stDibs.

Did they have wedding rings in the 18th century?

Yes, wedding rings have a long history, stretching back to ancient Egypt. The first diamond engagement ring was created in 1477 by Archduke Maximillian of Austria. Browse a wide array of vintage and contemporary wedding rings on 1stDibs.

How did art change in the 18th century?

In the 18th century, art changed in style from Baroque to Rococo and Neoclassicism. Art became more ornamented and idealized during the Rococo period and then shifted toward a style that emulated the artwork of ancient Greece and Rome near the end of the century. You’ll find a variety of fine art on 1stDibs.

What is the most important painting of the 20th century?

What painting is the most important of the 20th century is largely a matter of personal opinion. Some notable works produced during the period include Paul Cézanne's Mont Sainte-Victoire, Pablo Picasso's Les Demoiselles d'Avignon, Henri Matisse's The Dance and Jackson Pollock's Lavender Mist. Shop a large selection of 20th-century paintings on 1stDibs.

What furniture was used in the 16th century?

A variety of furniture was used during the 16th century. Items commonly found in homes include high-backed armchairs, chests, stools, benches and cupboards. Most European artisans active during the time period produced pieces out of oak wood. Find a large collection of antique furniture on 1stDibs.

What is 17th-century furniture called?

What 17th-century furniture is called varies. The general term for all furniture produced 100 years ago, including 17th-century pieces, is antique furniture. You may also choose to be more specific and describe a piece by its style. Theatrical and lavish, the Baroque style was prevalent across Europe from the 17th to the mid-18th century and spread around the world through colonialism, including in Asia, Africa and the Americas. Baroque furniture was extravagant in all aspects, from shape to materials. 17th-century pieces from England often feature characteristics of the William and Mary style, such as crisp lines, maple and walnut veneers, inlaid bands and C-scroll ornaments. On 1stDibs, explore a variety of antique furniture.

How can I identify 18th century brass candlesticks?

One way to check if your brass candlesticks are from the 18th century is to look for the two seams running lengthwise on either side. This is from when the candlestick was molded in two halves and then soldered together. You’ll find a variety of candlesticks of all shapes and sizes from some of the top sellers on 1stDibs.

What are the major features of Dutch 17th century portraiture?

17th-century Dutch portraiture has many similarities to other Baroque paintings, including rich colors, dark shadows and intense lighting. Many famous Dutch Baroque works lean toward realism. In Dutch portraiture, props and detailed backgrounds are uncommon. You'll find a collection of Dutch Baroque paintings from some of the world’s top art dealers on 1stDibs.

Which individuals are considered the Big Three of 18th-century cartoons, and why?

The individuals considered the Big Three of 18th-century cartoons are William Hogarth, James Gillray and George Cruikshank. Although the 18th century saw a widespread increase in illustrations in newspapers, these three illustrators were particularly well-known for their work. Hogarth's work was extremely diverse, ranging from serious, realistic paintings and portraits to satirical and moralistic illustrations filled with symbolism. A British caricaturist, Gillray is remembered today for his artworks representing political and social satires, like his political cartoons against George III of England. Despite being a prolific caricaturist, Cruikshank is now most famous for illustrating the works of Charles Dickens. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of illustrations.

What kinds of figures elevated the use of porcelain in 18th century Europe?

At the end of the 17th century, Europe went into a frenzy over porcelain. Asian porcelain was highly sought after, and spurred the foundation of the Meissen factory in France, where hard porcelain went on to be made. You’ll find a large collection of porcelain pieces from many of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

19th Century Telescope

Victorian Telescope

Brass And Leather Telescope

Brass Telescope On Tripod

Category

Antique 19th Century European Other Scientific Instruments

Monumental Swiss Brass Telescope by Perrelet

$228,500

Victorian Brass And Baleen Table Telescope

By Casartelli

Located in Essex, MA

WITH FITTED MAHOGANY BOX. SIGNED CASARTELLI, 43 MARKET ST , MANCHESTER

Category

Antique 19th Century British Victorian Scientific Instruments

Victorian Brass And Baleen Table Telescope

$2,850

Large Brass Tabletop Telescope by Thomas Jones

Located in Godshill, Isle of Wight

A large brass tabletop telescope by Thomas Jones A large antique brass telescope by Thomas Jones

Category

Antique Mid-19th Century English Machine Age Nautical Objects

Large Brass Tabletop Telescope by Thomas Jones

$2,536

Exquisite 19th C. Brass Telescope by Hammersley Bros. with Original Wood Case

Located in New York, NY

Mid-19th Century Brass Telescope with Original Wood Case and Lenses. This exquisite telescope

Category

Antique 1850s English Victorian Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

Exquisite 19th C. Brass Telescope by Hammersley Bros. with Original Wood Case

$6,000

Antique Brass Extending Naval Telescope circa 1880 Bisley

Located in London, GB

a few decades, the reflecting telescope was invented, which used mirrors. In the 20th century many

Category

Antique 19th Century English More Furniture and Collectibles

Antique Brass Extending Naval Telescope circa 1880 Bisley

$1,360

French Directoire Fruitwood Telescoping Green Marble-Top Candle Stand

Located in Atlanta, GA

The French Directoire French candle stand featuring round green marble top with brass gallery, pedestal base and tripod legs.

Category

Antique Early 19th Century French Directoire Side Tables

Materials

Marble, Brass

French Directoire Fruitwood Telescoping Green Marble-Top Candle Stand

$2,085

Vintage Brass Telescope on Mahogany Stand by Broadhurst Clarkson Co. London

Located in Wilton, CT

A handsome curiosity every refined home needs. This vintage telescope is an excellent example of

Category

Antique 19th Century English Scientific Instruments

Materials

Metal, Brass

Vintage Brass Telescope on Mahogany Stand by Broadhurst Clarkson Co. London

$2,500

Swiss Enamel and Gold Telescope with Pocket Watch

By J.F. Bautte Moynier

Located in New Orleans, LA

A marriage of 19th-century Swiss scientific achievement and artistic mastery, this exceptionally

Category

Antique 19th Century Swiss Scientific Instruments

Materials

Gold, Enamel

Swiss Enamel and Gold Telescope with Pocket Watch

$248,500

Antique Nautical Telescope, Brass and Mahogany, Early 1800s

Located in Milan, IT

manufacture of the early 19th century. Excellent condition, fully functional, complete with base for support

Category

Antique Early 19th Century British Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

Antique Nautical Telescope, Brass and Mahogany, Early 1800s

$1,306

Antique Library Telescope, Terrestrial, Astronomical, Scottish E. Lennie

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

This is an antique library telescope for terrestrial or astronomical use. A Scottish piece from the

Category

Antique 19th Century Victorian Scientific Instruments

Antique Library Telescope, Terrestrial, Astronomical, Scottish E. Lennie

$4,215

Important Charles C. Hutchinson Telescope - 69 Inches Long

By Charles C. Hutchinson

Located in Peekskill, NY

This large important telescope is signed Charles C. Hutchinson, Boston. It's quite an impressive

Category

Antique 19th Century American Industrial Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

Important Charles C. Hutchinson Telescope - 69 Inches Long

$4,200

French Brass Telescope and Spotter Scope by A. Bardou

By A. Bardou

Located in San Francisco, CA

A fine French brass 3" diameter telescope and spotter scope, optically excellent, made and signed

Category

Antique 19th Century French Scientific Instruments

French Brass Telescope and Spotter Scope by A. Bardou

$2,850

Pair of English Sheffield Telescoping Columnar Candlesticks, 1820

Located in Kenilworth, IL

Pair of English Sheffield telescoping columnar candlesticks on a circular footed base. England

Category

Antique Early 19th Century English Candlesticks

Materials

Silver Plate, Sterling Silver, Copper

Pair of English Sheffield Telescoping Columnar Candlesticks, 1820

$875 / set

Antique, Telescope, Dolland, Three Draw, Terrestrial, Astronomical Circa 1830

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

Our Stock # 18.5076 This is an antique telescope dating to the early 19th century, a three draw

Category

Antique Early 19th Century English Victorian Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

Antique, Telescope, Dolland, Three Draw, Terrestrial, Astronomical Circa 1830

$1,055

Antique Library Telescope, English, Brass, Astronomical, Dollond, Late Victorian

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

This is an antique library telescope. An English, brass astronomical mounted refractor by Dollond

Category

Antique Late 19th Century British Victorian Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

Antique Library Telescope, English, Brass, Astronomical, Dollond, Late Victorian

$3,153

Antique Telescope on Stand, Terrestrial Astronomical Negretti Zambra, 1899

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

This is an antique telescope dating to the late 19th century, 1899. In fine order physically and

Category

Antique Late 19th Century English Victorian Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

Antique Telescope on Stand, Terrestrial Astronomical Negretti Zambra, 1899

$1,501

Astronomical Telescope Signed W. Gilbert Sons London, Early 1800

Located in Milan, IT

Astronomical telescope, wood and brass, splayed shaped, signed W. Gilbert & Sons London, early 1800

Category

Antique 19th Century British Scientific Instruments

Astronomical Telescope Signed W. Gilbert Sons London, Early 1800

$12,975

Antique Pocket Telescope, English, Two Draw, Small, Terrestrial, Victorian

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

This is an antique pocket telescope. An English two draw, small refractor for terrestrial or

Category

Antique Late 19th Century English Victorian Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

Antique Pocket Telescope, English, Two Draw, Small, Terrestrial, Victorian

$130

Antique Library Telescope, English Brass, Astronomical, Dollond, Victorian, 1890

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

This is an antique library telescope. An English, brass astronomical mounted refractor by Dollond

Category

Antique Late 19th Century British Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

Antique Library Telescope, English Brass, Astronomical, Dollond, Victorian, 1890

$3,148

Antique 4 Draw Telescope, English, Brass, Terrestrial, Astronomical, Victorian

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

This is an antique 4 draw telescope. An English, leather and brass terrestrial or astronomical

Category

Antique Late 19th Century British Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

Antique 4 Draw Telescope, English, Brass, Terrestrial, Astronomical, Victorian

$1,521

Antique Hughes Telescope, English, 5 Draw, Terrestrial, Astronomical, Regency

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

This is an antique Hughes telescope. An English, leather and brass 5-draw terrestrial or

Category

Antique Early 19th Century English Regency Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

Antique Hughes Telescope, English, 5 Draw, Terrestrial, Astronomical, Regency

$1,535

Antique Native American Beaded Telescope Case, Blackfeet Plains , 1875-1900

By Native American Art

Located in Denver, CO

A 19th century American Indian beaded telescope case (Blackfoot/Blackfeet). The case is composed of

Category

Antique 19th Century American Native American Native American Objects

Materials

Brass

Antique Native American Beaded Telescope Case, Blackfeet Plains , 1875-1900

$14,500

Antique Pocket Telescope, Three Draw, Refractor, English, Victorian, circa 1870

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

English, Victorian telesscope dating to the late 19th century circa 1870. Perfect for bird watching

Category

Antique 19th Century English Victorian Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

$Antique Pocket Telescope, Three Draw, Refractor, English, Victorian, circa 1870$

Antique Pocket Telescope, Three Draw, Refractor, English, Victorian, circa 1870

$335

Antique Telescope, Three-Draw Refractor, English, Georgian, circa 1800

By Dollond, London

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

This is an antique telescope, a three-draw refractor for terrestrial or astronomical use. An

Category

Antique Early 19th Century English Georgian Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

$Antique Telescope, Three-Draw Refractor, English, Georgian, circa 1800$

Antique Telescope, Three-Draw Refractor, English, Georgian, circa 1800

$1,302

Antique Telescope, Dollond Day or Night Terrestrial, Astronomical, circa 1850

By Dollond, London

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

This is an antique telescope by Dollond dating to the mid-19th century, a 'day or night' single

Category

Antique Mid-19th Century English Victorian Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

Antique Telescope, Dollond Day or Night Terrestrial, Astronomical, circa 1850

$1,432

Antique Telescope, Dollond London, Terrestrial Four-Draw Refractor, circa 1800

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

This is an antique telescope by Dollond dating to the early 19th century, a four-draw Scope

Category

Antique Early 19th Century English Georgian Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

$Antique Telescope, Dollond London, Terrestrial Four-Draw Refractor, circa 1800$

Antique Telescope, Dollond London, Terrestrial Four-Draw Refractor, circa 1800

$1,261

Antique Pocket Telescope, Three-Draw, Refractor, English, Victorian, circa 1895

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

English Victorian Scope dating to the late 19th century circa 1895. Perfect for bird watching

Category

Antique Late 19th Century English Victorian Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

$Antique Pocket Telescope, Three-Draw, Refractor, English, Victorian, circa 1895$

Antique Pocket Telescope, Three-Draw, Refractor, English, Victorian, circa 1895

$267

Antique Telescope, Dollond Day or Night Terrestrial, Astronomical, circa 1850

By Dollond, London

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

telescope by Dollond dating to the mid-19th century, a 'day or night' single draw scope suitable for

Category

Antique Mid-19th Century English Victorian Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

Antique Telescope, Dollond Day or Night Terrestrial, Astronomical, circa 1850

$1,432

Important Astronomy Telescope Japanese Antique Woodblock Book 1872 Superb Prints

Located in South Burlington, VT

Depicts superb original woodblock prints of planets, comets, telescopes, sun and moon events and more

Category

Antique 19th Century Japanese Meiji Sculptures and Carvings

Materials

Paper

Important Astronomy Telescope Japanese Antique Woodblock Book 1872 Superb Prints

$228

Antique 3 Draw Telescope, English, Brass, Terrestrial Refractor, Victorian, 1900

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

This is an antique 3 draw telescope. An English, brass terrestrial or astronomical refractor

Category

Antique Late 19th Century British Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

$Antique 3 Draw Telescope, English, Brass, Terrestrial Refractor, Victorian, 1900$

Antique 3 Draw Telescope, English, Brass, Terrestrial Refractor, Victorian, 1900

$1,432

Antique Pocket Telescope, English, Brass, Leather, 3 Draw, Refractor, Victorian

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

Victorian period and dating to the late 19th century, circa 1900. Painted brass displays a desirable aged

Category

Antique Late 19th Century English Victorian Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

$Antique Pocket Telescope, English, Brass, Leather, 3 Draw, Refractor, Victorian$

Antique Pocket Telescope, English, Brass, Leather, 3 Draw, Refractor, Victorian

$171

Antique, Telescope, Two Draw, Mahogany, Brass, J.P. Cutts, London

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

English scope by J.P. Cutts of London (headquartered in Sheffield) dating to the early 19th century, circa

Category

Antique Early 19th Century English Early Victorian Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

Antique, Telescope, Two Draw, Mahogany, Brass, J.P. Cutts, London

$1,124

Antique 3 Draw Telescope, English, Terrestrial, Lawrence Mayo, Victorian, 1900

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

This is an antique 3 draw telescope. An English, enamelled brass 'The Sign Post' terrestrial

Category

Antique Late 19th Century British Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

Antique 3 Draw Telescope, English, Terrestrial, Lawrence Mayo, Victorian, 1900

$1,843

Antique 3 Draw Telescope, English, Brass, Leather, Terrestrial, Victorian, 1870

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

This is an antique 3-draw telescope. An English, brass and leather terrestrial or astronomical

Category

Antique Mid-19th Century British Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

Antique 3 Draw Telescope, English, Brass, Leather, Terrestrial, Victorian, 1870

$1,843

Antique Maritime Telescope, English, Brass, Walnut, Ship, J. Sewill, Victorian

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

This is an antique maritime telescope. An English, brass and walnut mounted ship's instrument by J

Category

Antique Late 19th Century British Victorian Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

Antique Maritime Telescope, English, Brass, Walnut, Ship, J. Sewill, Victorian

$4,268

Antique Telescope, Three-Draw, Refractor, English Victorian, Spotter, circa 1880

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

This is an antique telescope, a three draw refractor for terrestrial or astronomical use. An

Category

Antique 19th Century English Victorian Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

$Antique Telescope, Three-Draw, Refractor, English Victorian, Spotter, circa 1880$

Antique Telescope, Three-Draw, Refractor, English Victorian, Spotter, circa 1880

$575

Antique Telescope, Three Draw, Refractor, English, Georgian, Dollond, circa 1830

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

This is an antique telescope, a three draw, terrestrial and astronomical, achromatic refractor. An

Category

Antique 19th Century English Georgian Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

$Antique Telescope, Three Draw, Refractor, English, Georgian, Dollond, circa 1830$

Antique Telescope, Three Draw, Refractor, English, Georgian, Dollond, circa 1830

$987

Antique 3 Draw Telescope, English, Fruitwood, Brass, Henry Hughes, Victorian

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

This is an antique 3 draw telescope. An English, fruitwood and brass terrestrial refractor by H

Category

Antique Mid-19th Century British Early Victorian Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

Antique 3 Draw Telescope, English, Fruitwood, Brass, Henry Hughes, Victorian

$1,488

Antique 2 Draw Telescope, English, Chromed Brass, Terrestrial, Astro, Victorian

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

This is an antique 2 draw telescope. An English, chromed brass terrestrial or astronomical

Category

Antique Late 19th Century British Late Victorian Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

Antique 2 Draw Telescope, English, Chromed Brass, Terrestrial, Astro, Victorian

$1,646

Antique Telescope, Single Draw Terrestrial Refractor, Dollond London, circa 1800

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

This is an antique telescope, a single draw refractor for terrestrial or astronomical use. An

Category

Antique Early 19th Century English Georgian Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

$Antique Telescope, Single Draw Terrestrial Refractor, Dollond London, circa 1800$

Antique Telescope, Single Draw Terrestrial Refractor, Dollond London, circa 1800

$1,364

Pocket Telescope, 6 Draw, English, Compact, Negretti and Zambra, circa 1860

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

English compact Scope by Negretti and Zambra dating to the mid-19th century, circa 1860. Perfect for

Category

Antique Mid-19th Century English Victorian Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

Pocket Telescope, 6 Draw, English, Compact, Negretti and Zambra, circa 1860

$1,364

Antique Aesthetic Chas Parker Style Figural Dolphin Telescoping Piano Lamp 19thC

By Charles Parker

Located in Big Flats, NY

telescoping figural stand with dolphins, scroll and Greek Key elements, 19th century Measures- 71''H x 16''W

Category

Antique 19th Century American Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass

Antique Aesthetic Chas Parker Style Figural Dolphin Telescoping Piano Lamp 19thC

$1,760

Large Antique Officer of The Watch Telescope, English, Dollond, Victorian, 1890

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

Watch type favoured onboard in the 19th century. Delivered polished and ready to display or enjoy

Category

Antique Late 19th Century British Scientific Instruments

Materials

Oak

Large Antique Officer of The Watch Telescope, English, Dollond, Victorian, 1890

$1,580

Antique 3 Draw Telescope, English Terrestrial, Leather Case, Jp Cutts, Victorian

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

This is an antique 3-draw telescope. An English, terrestrial and astronomical refractor in leather

Category

Antique Late 19th Century British Scientific Instruments

Materials

Leather

Antique 3 Draw Telescope, English Terrestrial, Leather Case, Jp Cutts, Victorian

$1,432

A Handsome American Walnut Adjustable Tripod Telescope Stand Now a Lamp

Located in San Francisco, CA

A handsome and robust American walnut adjustable tripod telescope stand with brass fittings; now

Category

Antique 19th Century American Floor Lamps

A Handsome American Walnut Adjustable Tripod Telescope Stand Now a Lamp

$3,900

Antique Telescope, Three Draw Refractor, J Casartelli and Son, circa 1900

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

This is an antique telescope, a three draw refractor for terrestrial or astronomical use. An

Category

Antique Late 19th Century English Victorian Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

$Antique Telescope, Three Draw Refractor, J Casartelli and Son, circa 1900$

Antique Telescope, Three Draw Refractor, J Casartelli and Son, circa 1900

$849

Antique 3 Draw Telescope, English, Brass, Day or Night, Terrestrial, Victorian

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

This is an antique 3 draw telescope. An English, brass 'Day or Night' terrestrial or astronomical

Category

Antique Mid-19th Century British Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

Antique 3 Draw Telescope, English, Brass, Day or Night, Terrestrial, Victorian

$1,843

Antique Telescope Three-Draw Refractor Georgian C. West London, circa 1820

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

This is an antique telescope, a three draw refractor for terrestrial or astronomical use. An

Category

Antique Early 19th Century English Georgian Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

$Antique Telescope Three-Draw Refractor Georgian C. West London, circa 1820$

Antique Telescope Three-Draw Refractor Georgian C. West London, circa 1820

$987

Large Antique Officer of the Watch Telescope, English, Negretti and Zambra, 1880

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

antique telescope, an example of the Officer of the Watch type favoured onboard in the 19th century by the

Category

Antique Late 19th Century British Scientific Instruments

Materials

Metal

Large Antique Officer of the Watch Telescope, English, Negretti and Zambra, 1880

$1,553

Antique Telescope, Five-Draw Terrestrial Refractor, Bancks of London, circa 1820

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

This is an antique telescope, a five draw refractor for terrestrial or astronomical use. An English

Category

Antique Early 19th Century English George IV Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

$Antique Telescope, Five-Draw Terrestrial Refractor, Bancks of London, circa 1820$

Antique Telescope, Five-Draw Terrestrial Refractor, Bancks of London, circa 1820

$1,336

Antique Lord Bury 4 Draw Telescope, English, Leather, Steward, Victorian, C.1870

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

This is an antique Lord Bury 4 draw telescope. An English, leather and brass terrestrial or

Category

Antique Late 19th Century British Scientific Instruments

Materials

Leather

Antique Lord Bury 4 Draw Telescope, English, Leather, Steward, Victorian, C.1870

$1,555

R J Beck Brass Refracting Telescope with Tripod and Original Carrying Box

Located in San Francisco, CA

An impressive English brass 3.5" diameter refracting telescope made and signed by R & J Beck

Category

Antique Late 19th Century English Victorian Scientific Instruments

Materials

Mahogany

$R J Beck Brass Refracting Telescope with Tripod and Original Carrying Box$

R J Beck Brass Refracting Telescope with Tripod and Original Carrying Box

$5,500

Brass Sextant Signed WC COX Devonport, Mid-19th Century

Located in Milan, IT

Brass sextant signed WC COX Devonport made in the mid-19th century, instrument complete with three

Category

Antique 1850s British Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

Brass Sextant Signed WC COX Devonport, Mid-19th Century

$3,444

Antique French Nickel-Plated Brass Surveyor s Level 19th Century

Located in London, GB

century in date. The 4cm telescope has rackwork secured by twin clamps and is engraved 1 and 2, on a

Category

Antique 1850s French Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass, Nickel

Antique French Nickel-Plated Brass Surveyor s Level 19th Century

$664

A Very Rare and Fine 19th Century Telescope by Browns of Glasgow

Located in Dublin, IE

A very rare 19th Century lacquered brass telescope by Browns of Glasgow. This stunning three draw

Category

Antique 19th Century Scottish Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

A Very Rare and Fine 19th Century Telescope by Browns of Glasgow

$4,275

A Very Rare and Fine Early 19th Century Telescope by Dolland London

By Dolland

Located in Dublin, IE

A very rare early 19th Century by Dolland, London, richly patinated mahogany and brass telescope

Category

Antique Early 19th Century English Regency Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

A Very Rare and Fine Early 19th Century Telescope by Dolland London

$3,088

Continental Mixedwood Telescoping Music Stand

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Late 19th century telescoping music stand. Top portion tilts. Height adjust from 41" to 58".

Category

Antique Late 19th Century Music Stands

Continental Mixedwood Telescoping Music Stand

$995

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19th Century Telescope For Sale on 1stDibs

At 1stDibs, there are many versions of the ideal 19th century telescope for your home. Frequently made of metal, brass and wood, every 19th century telescope was constructed with great care. Whether you’re looking for an older or newer 19th century telescope, there are earlier versions available from the 19th Century and newer variations made as recently as the 20th Century. A 19th century telescope made by Victorian designers — as well as those associated with Georgian — is very popular. Dollond, London, Bardou Son and Charles C. Hutchinson each produced at least one beautiful 19th century telescope that is worth considering.

Finding the Right Collectibles-curiosities for You

Antique and vintage collectibles and curiosities can bring whimsy and wonder to any interior.

Decorating with old scientific instruments, historical memorabilia and vintage musical instruments, as well as other authentic collectibles and curiosities that can be found on 1stDibs, presents an opportunity to create a unique, natural history museum-like atmosphere in your home that can provoke conversation as often as it pays tribute to how far we’ve come in understanding our world.

And bringing collectibles and curiosities into your space is actually on trend — Wunderkammern, or curiosity cabinets, were all the rage in Europe during the 1500s and continued to have adherents there and in the U.S. in the following centuries. Today, however, they’re experiencing a real surge in popularity and influencing how many interior designers are furnishing and decorating homes — combining contemporary with antique, scientific with tribal, earthly with extraterrestrial, Les Lalanne tables with Flemish tapestries.

The original Wunderkammern were entire rooms filled with objects demonstrating their owners’ worldly knowledge: A proper one included artificiala or preciosa (objets d’art); naturalia (such as skeletons, shells, minerals); exotica (taxidermy or dried plants); and scientifica (scientific instruments), frequently alongside religious relics and ancient artifacts.

Pay tribute to a history of rich and diverse musical traditions that have taken shape all over the world by decorating your home with a collection of antique and vintage musical instruments — with a little help from strong hanging wire or some wall hooks, vintage brass instruments such as a gong, French horn or trumpet can help elevate a home office or complement the efforts you’ve made to ensure a welcoming vibe in your home’s entryway. Bells or antique wind instruments can add provocative metallic contrasts to dark woods as tabletop decorative objects.

Create an intriguing focal point with Georgian scientific instruments, such as stick barometers with mahogany cases or lacquered brass telescopes. These items stem from an era named for the monarchies of the four King Georges, who ruled England in succession starting in 1714 (plus King William’s reign, which lasted until 1837). Just as there was beautiful jewelry produced during the period that today is coveted by collectors, there is much to be found in the collectibles and curiosities realm too.

Wanderlust, nostalgia and a shared love of good design are contributing factors to certain trends in decorating — just as vintage trunks and luggage have reappeared as furniture or home accents in a bedroom or foyer, decorating with globes, maps or nautical objects is similarly rooted in the allure of travel and a penchant for the stylish finishing touch that collectibles bring to our homes.

Find a wide range of antique and vintage collectibles and curiosities on 1stDibs.

Questions About 19th Century Telescope

Who invented the reflector telescope in the 17th century?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Sir Isaac Newton invented the reflector telescope in the 17th century. He created it as a replacement for the refracting telescope, which tended to have poor optics. Find a collection of antique and vintage telescopes on 1stDibs from some of the world’s top sellers.
Who was one of the most important portrait painters of the 19th century?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
British artist John Singer Sargent was one of the most important portrait painters of the 19th century. Other notable portraitists from the period include James Abbott McNeill Whistler, Eugène Delacroix, Théodore Géricault, Gustave Courbet, Édouard Manet, Mary Cassat, Claude Monet and Pierre-Auguste Renoir. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of portrait paintings.
What art style was used by the 19th-century French painters?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
The French painters of the 19th century worked in two styles. Neoclassicism dominated the first half of the century, and Impressionism was the most common style during the second half. On 1stDibs, you can find a variety of French paintings.
Was there glass in the 16th century?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Yes, the history of glass-making goes back much further than the 1600s. It’s believed that they were making glass in different parts of the world at least 3,600 years ago, maybe even longer. During the late Bronze Age in Egypt and in Western Asia, glassmarking advanced significantly and was manipulated extensively to produce vessels, jewelry, and works of art. Shop a range of antique and vintage glass on 1stDibs.
Were there cannons in the 16th century?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Yes, there were cannons in the 16th century. The history of the weapon dates back to 12th-century China. Historical records suggest that the first cannons appeared in Europe during the Islamic wars in Iberia in the 13th century. Find a range of antique cannons on 1stDibs.
How do you identify 18th-century furniture?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 13, 2024
To identify 18th-century furniture, you can research your piece in the context of the prevailing styles of the period or consult a certified appraiser or experienced antique dealer. To identify your item on your own, look over it for maker's marks, such as carvings, stamps, brands and labels. Researching the marking can help you determine the maker of your piece, and from there, you can search further to learn more about your particular item. Without a maker's mark, the best approach is to consider the characteristics of the dominant furniture styles during the 18th century. In England, these included William and Mary, Queen Anne, Georgian, Chippendale, Hepplewhite and Sheraton. Some French furniture styles of the 1700s include Louis XV, Louis XVI and Régence. Find a diverse assortment of 18th-century furniture on 1stDibs.
Did they have wedding rings in the 18th century?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Yes, wedding rings have a long history, stretching back to ancient Egypt. The first diamond engagement ring was created in 1477 by Archduke Maximillian of Austria. Browse a wide array of vintage and contemporary wedding rings on 1stDibs.
How did art change in the 18th century?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
In the 18th century, art changed in style from Baroque to Rococo and Neoclassicism. Art became more ornamented and idealized during the Rococo period and then shifted toward a style that emulated the artwork of ancient Greece and Rome near the end of the century. You’ll find a variety of fine art on 1stDibs.
What is the most important painting of the 20th century?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
What painting is the most important of the 20th century is largely a matter of personal opinion. Some notable works produced during the period include Paul Cézanne's Mont Sainte-Victoire, Pablo Picasso's Les Demoiselles d'Avignon, Henri Matisse's The Dance and Jackson Pollock's Lavender Mist. Shop a large selection of 20th-century paintings on 1stDibs.
What furniture was used in the 16th century?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
A variety of furniture was used during the 16th century. Items commonly found in homes include high-backed armchairs, chests, stools, benches and cupboards. Most European artisans active during the time period produced pieces out of oak wood. Find a large collection of antique furniture on 1stDibs.
What is 17th-century furniture called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 23, 2024
What 17th-century furniture is called varies. The general term for all furniture produced 100 years ago, including 17th-century pieces, is antique furniture. You may also choose to be more specific and describe a piece by its style. Theatrical and lavish, the Baroque style was prevalent across Europe from the 17th to the mid-18th century and spread around the world through colonialism, including in Asia, Africa and the Americas. Baroque furniture was extravagant in all aspects, from shape to materials. 17th-century pieces from England often feature characteristics of the William and Mary style, such as crisp lines, maple and walnut veneers, inlaid bands and C-scroll ornaments. On 1stDibs, explore a variety of antique furniture.
How can I identify 18th century brass candlesticks?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
One way to check if your brass candlesticks are from the 18th century is to look for the two seams running lengthwise on either side. This is from when the candlestick was molded in two halves and then soldered together. You’ll find a variety of candlesticks of all shapes and sizes from some of the top sellers on 1stDibs.
What are the major features of Dutch 17th century portraiture?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
17th-century Dutch portraiture has many similarities to other Baroque paintings, including rich colors, dark shadows and intense lighting. Many famous Dutch Baroque works lean toward realism. In Dutch portraiture, props and detailed backgrounds are uncommon. You'll find a collection of Dutch Baroque paintings from some of the world’s top art dealers on 1stDibs.
Which individuals are considered the Big Three of 18th-century cartoons, and why?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJanuary 10, 2025
The individuals considered the Big Three of 18th-century cartoons are William Hogarth, James Gillray and George Cruikshank. Although the 18th century saw a widespread increase in illustrations in newspapers, these three illustrators were particularly well-known for their work. Hogarth's work was extremely diverse, ranging from serious, realistic paintings and portraits to satirical and moralistic illustrations filled with symbolism. A British caricaturist, Gillray is remembered today for his artworks representing political and social satires, like his political cartoons against George III of England. Despite being a prolific caricaturist, Cruikshank is now most famous for illustrating the works of Charles Dickens. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of illustrations.
What kinds of figures elevated the use of porcelain in 18th century Europe?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
At the end of the 17th century, Europe went into a frenzy over porcelain. Asian porcelain was highly sought after, and spurred the foundation of the Meissen factory in France, where hard porcelain went on to be made. You’ll find a large collection of porcelain pieces from many of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

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