Polariscope

Henri Soleil (Soleil fils) · ca. 1834-1844

Here, a hollow brass tube (13 inches long) sits atop a brass stand (15 inches high). At one end of the tube is a glass mirror that can be aimed in various directions. At the other is an eyepiece with an analyzer, and a graduated circle. The “Soleil Fils Opticien / Rue de l’Odéon No 35 à Paris” inscription on the side of the tube refers to J. B. F. Soleil, an optical instrument maker who opened a shop at this address in 1825 and who, for a while, used the term “Fils” to distinguish himself from his father, who also made optical instruments. The U.S. Military Academy bought this instrument between 1834 and 1844.