Machine exerts a strong influence

Wimshurst influence machine by Dolland – £2400 at Trevanion & Dean.

The Wimshurst influence machine, an electrostatic generator capable of creating high voltages, was developed between 1880-83 by British inventor James Wimshurst (1832-1903).

Extracted from Antiques Trade Gazette | Roland Arkell

Wimshurst influence machine by Dolland – £2400 at Trevanion & Dean.

This example above, of typical composition with two contra-rotating cylinders, two Leyden jars and a hand crack mechanism, has a label for the London optical and scientific instrument maker Dollond and Company of Ludgate Hill.

It stands 17in (42cm) high on a hardwood base.

Offered for sale at Trevanion & Dean (20% buyer’s premium) in Whitchurch, Shropshire, on March 14, it took £2400.