Leyden jar
Date1775-1800
Inventory NumberDW0018
ClassificationLeyden Jar
Subject
Maker
French
?
Cultural Region
Dimensions18.5 x 6 x 6 cm (7 5/16 x 2 3/8 x 2 3/8 in.)
jar diam.: 5.4 cm (2 1/8 in.)
jar diam.: 5.4 cm (2 1/8 in.)
Material
DescriptionThis colorful instrument is made of glass, which is filled with thin gold-colored sheets of metal that act as an electrical conductor (replacing the liquid, often associated to the Leiden jar). The outside has been decorated with green and purple diamond-shaped pieces of conducting material. The discharge rod at the top has the shape of a large hook. Originally, the bottle was probably sealed with cork and red wax, remnants of the wax still being present. Only paper now seals the jar.
In Collection(s)
Signedunsigned
FunctionThe Leyden jar, invented in the first half of the eighteenth century, is nothing else than a condenser. It accumulates electricity from an electrostatic machine, and then delivers it progressively or at all once, producing a great electrical shock. Scientific experiments were done with it, as well as spectacular demonstrations in salons and at the court, where hundreds of soldiers and monks holding hands, for instance, were shocked all at once.
ProvenanceDavid Wheatland purchased from Roux-Devillas Paris, May 14, 1966 (lot 5/42).
Wireless Specialty Apparatus Company
Date: circa 1908-1909
Object number: 2008-1-0117
