The spectacular French microscope from Getty’s collection is a unique testament to scientific advances and Rococo design in the Age of Enlightenment. It allowed science enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the recently discovered world of the microscopically small. New study and conservation present the cultural and historical context of this magnificent object and reveals its technical complexity in a display which includes its lavish tooled-leather case and specimen slides of natural curiosities.
This exhibition is presented in English and Spanish. Esta exhibición se presenta en inglés y en español.
Southern California’s landmark arts event, PST ART, returns in September 2024, presenting more than 60 exhibitions from organizations across the region exploring the intersections of art and science, both past and present. PST ART is presented by Getty. For more information about PST ART: Art & Science Collide, please visit pst.art
SELECTED WORKS
VIDEO
The Revolutionary Compound Microscope
Get a close-up look at a French gilt-bronze compound microscope, a technological wonder of the 18th century, with conservator Arlen Heginbotham.
PST x Getty x Smarthistory: An Expansion of Understanding
How did the microscope expand scientific understanding of the world? See how this 18th-century Rococo French device served as a decorative and functional instrument, embodying the political power of science and art during the Age of Enlightenment.
Exhibition Resources
Learn more about the exhibition.
To request a checklist of objects, please contact: sculpturedecorativearts@getty.edu.
Information on Getty Museum works of art can be found through a
collection search