Public and Private Science. The King George III Collection

The King George III collection is a unique assembly of scientific instruments scheduled for display in a specially commissioned gallery at the Science Museum, London. This lavishly illustrated book comprises the catalog of that remarkable collection. It describes the context in which these pieces of equipment were commissioned (many by the monarch himself), made, and used--providing a fascinating perspective on scientific life in eighteenth century London. The book gives details of the various craftsmen who made instruments for popular scientific demonstrations, and links the spread of scientific knowledge to the broader cultural developments of the period. The volume itself is beautifully illustrated with many color and black and white plates. Full details are given for every individual item--including construction, maker, and intended use. This book will a proud addition to the bookshelves of historians of science and technology, collectors of scientific instruments, and museum curators.

Alan Q. Morton, Senior Curator, Modern Physics, The Science Museum, London. Jane A. Wess, Curator, The Science Museum, London.