This is a small adjustable arc lamp on a microscope-like stand. It consists of two rectangular plates of metal set next to each other; set in the middle of each there is a large round knob, one of which has a wing nut screwed onto a screw that bisects the two. Between the plates is a rod that allows the lamp to be slid back and forth. At the front of the lamp is a hood that can be flapped up for access to the arc lamp. The hood has a small round window on each side. At the back of the plates on both sides there are protruding metal posts, one marked “+” and the other “-“. Attached to the apparatus are wires insulated by blue glass beads. A small metal chain dangles loose from the apparatus.
Accession Number: 2009.ph.133
Alternative Name: Carbon Arc Lamp
Primary Materials: Metal, Glass
The knob on one side of metal box has inscriptions “CARL ZEISS, JENA” and “H”. The other side reads “V”.
Dimensions (cm): Height = 24.5, Width = 9.5, Length = 35
An arc lamp provides a very bright light source. It is also a source of UV illumination.
Fair: The metal surfaces of the lamp are somewhat corroded. The chain-link adjustment apparatus is broken, as is one of the small round windows on each side of the hood.
Associated Instruments:
Manufacturer: Carl Zeiss AG, Jena, Germany
Date of Manufacture: c. 1913
Provenance:
Additional Information and References:
Carl Zeiss (1816-1888) was a German manufacturer of optical instruments. Carl Zeiss AG is his company.