Sir David Brewster, 1781 - 1868. Natural philosopher [d]
About this artwork
Brewster was a physicist, mathematician, astronomer, inventor and writer. From an early age he was interested in science and attended the University of Edinburgh from 1794. In 1799 he began contributing to the ‘Edinburgh Magazine’, becoming its editor in 1802. In 1808 he was invited to become editor of the ‘Edinburgh Encyclopedia’, and shortly after he began contributing to the ‘Encyclopedia Britannica’. During his lifetime Brewster was regarded as one of the pre-eminent scientific figures. His interest centered on optics and he is associated with the invention of the kaleidoscope and the stereoscope. He is also credited with bringing the calotype to Scotland and in persuading his good friend, William Henry Fox Talbot, not to patent the process outside England.
Updated before 2020
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artists:
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title:Sir David Brewster, 1781 - 1868. Natural philosopher [d]
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date created:1843 - 1847
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materials:Albumen print
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measurements:16.00 x 11.40 cm
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object type:
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credit line:Elliot Collection, bequeathed 1950
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accession number:PGP HA 178
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gallery:
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depicted:
Robert Adamson
Robert Adamson
Robert Adamson was one of the first professional photographers, setting up in business in Edinburgh in March 1843. He had aspired to be an engineer but his health was too poor. His brother, John, who was involved in the early experiments with photography in St Andrews, taught him the calotype...