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44 'Gun-Barrel' Theodolite

image of 'Gun-Barrel' Theodolite

An early theodolite for use in surveying, with the telescope tube shaped like the barrel of a gun. This was a fundamentally new design in 1737, and marked the origin of the modern, stable and accurate theodolite.

The instrument is signed ‘J Sisson London’; Jonathan Sisson flourished c. 1690-1747. As well as making surveying instruments, Sisson produced large astronomical instruments for observatories across Europe.

Private Collection, U.K.

See: W. Gardiner, Practical Surveying Improved, London 1737.

Objects lent by Anonymous Lender IV, UK:

22. Jet Cart, by Frances Watkins?, English, c. 1770

23. Frictional Electrostatic Generator, by John Newman, London, Early 19th Century

49. Electrostatic Cannon, by Thomas Jones, London, Early 19th Century

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