Antique Professional M. Stiassnie Microscope with Binocular. France, Circa 1920

Antique Professional M. Stiassnie Microscope with Binocular Accessory. France, Circa 1920

Antique professional laboratory microscope manufactured by the firm M. Stiassnie in Paris around 1920. It is a high quality scientific instrument, conceived from the outset for medical and laboratory use, professional in nature, and distinguished by its magnificent state of preservation and by the breadth of its original set.

The microscope is entirely made of gilded brass with its original period lacquer, preserved in exceptional condition. The finish retains a very attractive and even shine, with no repainting or restoration, conveying an immediate sense of a well cared for and authentic piece. The structure is solid, well proportioned and visually very elegant, with the rear arch finished in black, showing only light wear consistent with age.

The microscope is originally monocular, but it is supplied with an original binocular accessory, which can be used by removing the monocular tube and installing the corresponding adapter, also included. This accessory is uncommon and adds special value to the microscope, both from a practical and a collector’s point of view. The change from one system to the other is simple.

It features a revolving nosepiece fitted with four original objectives by M. Stiassnie, all in very good condition. This professional equipment allows complete and versatile use, typical of well equipped laboratory microscopes. The microscope is completed with two eyepieces for monocular use and two pairs of eyepieces intended for the binocular system.

The stage incorporates the original mechanical stage by the maker, a characteristic element of professional microscopes of a certain level. It is fitted with a functioning substage diaphragm system and well preserved mirrors. The microscope works perfectly. The focusing is smooth, the rack responds well and the overall mechanical adjustment is good, allowing real use if desired.

It is presented with its original wooden case, well preserved and solid, with interior compartments for the microscope and accessories. In addition, unused glass slides and other small accessories are included which do not appear in the photographs but form part of the set.

As the only notable flaw, there is a small chemical stain on the lacquer at the front of the tube, located near the Paris inscription, probably caused by the use of laboratory products. There is also slight wear to the black paint on the rear arch. These are minor details, normal in an antique professional instrument, and they do not affect its function or overall appeal.

Due to its excellent state of preservation, this microscope is especially attractive within its category. The presence of the original binocular accessory, which is uncommon, makes it a piece that is difficult to find so complete. The quality of the gilded brass with original lacquer and the breadth of the set make this microscope a very interesting option for a specialized collection or as a standout display piece.

Measurements: 42 × 17 × 14 cm, 16.54 × 6.69 × 5.51 in.

History of M. Stiassnie

The firm M. Stiassnie was a French manufacturer specialized in scientific and precision optical instruments, active in Paris between the late nineteenth century and the first decades of the twentieth century. Its microscopes were mainly intended for medical, university and laboratory use, and are characterized by solid construction, the use of noble materials such as gilded brass, and reliable mechanics designed for intensive use. During this period, Paris was one of the major European centers for the production of scientific instruments, alongside Berlin and London, and was home to numerous workshops dedicated to the manufacture of high quality optical devices.

Instruments signed by M. Stiassnie belong to this Parisian tradition of precision and skilled workmanship, aimed at professionals in medicine, research and teaching. Their microscopes often offered complete configurations, with proprietary optics, well designed cases and technical solutions adapted to daily laboratory work. Today, microscopes by this maker are appreciated by collectors and institutions, especially when preserved with their original finish and uncommon accessories such as removable binocular heads.