| RefNo | MOB/034 |
| Level | Item |
| Title | Electrical machine by Joseph Priestley |
| Date | c.1767 |
| Description | Electrical machine comprising a wooden frame with a handle, three feet, two arms, between which a glass globe and rubber pad are suspended. To operate the machine, the handle is turned to make the globe rotate and rub against the pad, producing an electrical charge. Designed by Joseph Priestley and first described his book 'The History and Present State of Electricity' (1767). |
| Extent | 1 instrument |
| ObjectName | Scientific Instrument |
| Materials | Wood, glass, brass |
| AccessStatus | Open |
| Provenance | The machine passed from Priestley to Dr Robert Cappe of York, the youngest son of Newcome Cappe, Unitarian and Minister of St Saviourgate Chapel, York, long-time friend of Priestley; Cappe bequeathed it to Dr. John Bostock (1773-1846) FRS, his fellow student and friend; Bostock bequeathed it to James Yates (1789-1871) FRS, his half-brother, who presented it to the Royal Society. |
| URLDescription | Digital version available on The Royal Society Picture Library |
| URL | https://pictures.royalsociety.org/image-rs-8458 |
Fellows associated with this archive
| Code | PersonName | Dates |
| NA8274 | Priestley; Joseph (1733 - 1804) | 1733 - 1804 |
| NA6082 | Yates; James (1789 - 1871) | 1789 - 1871 |