COPIE LEIDEN

This story compares a genuine Leeuwenhoek microscope with a replica version. The main image shows a replica, one that very clearly tells us that it is a copy.

The microscopic discoveries by Delft-born Antoni van Leeuwenhoek marked the beginning of microbiology. With his home-made microscopes, Van Leeuwenhoek discovered seamen and red blood cells, and observed bacteria for the very first time. Only a few of them have survived.

How scarce the instruments had become only really became clear in the late 19th century, when Van Leeuwenhoek, during a time of ever-growing historical consciousness, was dubbed the figurehead of the Dutch Golden Age. Replicas were made to ensure that Van Leeuwenhoek’s oeuvre became tangible again. These replicas tell us a lot about the time they were made in. They also reveal how, even today, we have only uncovered a portion of Van Leeuwenhoek’s secret instruments and research methods.