Reflecting Telescope, with Case, Tripod and Accessories, by James Short, London c.1748

An 18-inch focal length telescope on an altazimuth mount. The finder telescope is missing.

Instrument consists of a cylindrical body with an open, lens holding end whilst opposing end has aperture with screw thread for holding an eyepiece. Interior of aperture end has a mirrored surface for reflecting plane mirror which is mounted on the interior of the barrel. Location of plane mirror is controlled via a rotating beam which extends length of exterior. Instrument is mounted on a bracket with two ivory handled screwed beams for controlling horizontal and vertical angle of telescope.

Bracket has a cylindrical base which pushes into a copper alloy tripod base with fluted legs. A tightening screw at the top of the tripod holds the instrument in place.

Also present is a metal box with two runners built into interior side for holding the plane mirror currently mounted on interior of telescope.

Instrument and accessories have a wooden case with metal carry handles mounted on either side. Box has a key operated lock and inbuilt felt-lined supports for holding instrument.