The Calder Library’s newest display, “A History of Magnifying Glasses,” is now open outside the History of Medicine room on the third floor. Come see our collection of historic and unique magnifying glasses, including a beautiful Korean magnifying glass with mythological figures carved into the handle and an ivory and brass magnifying glass dating from the Qing Dynasty. The display also features a timeline tracing the history of lenses from 2600 BC Egypt to today’s most popular websites, pictures of magnifying glasses used in science and medicine (including Darwin’s own), and photographs of the first microscope and telescope.
In addition, the display on cupping, also located outside the History of Medicine room, has been updated with new information on the efficacy of this alternative medical treatment.
Please let us know what you think of the displays or suggest ideas for future displays in the comments below.