Collection of 14 Vintage Japanese Microscope Mirrors Post-WWII Circa 1946–1952 For Sale

This listing features a set of 14 vintage Japanese microscope mirrors dating from the immediate post-WWII reconstruction period, circa 1946–1952. These mirrors exhibit hallmark features of mid-century optical craftsmanship, including:

• Matte black backing typical of silver-coated first-surface mirrors sealed with asphaltum or shellac — a standard in pre-1955 laboratory optics.

• Precision-ground edges and metal mounts, consistent with scientific instrument components from the era.

• Archival filler material discovered behind the mirror glass as shown in picture 2: hand-cut circular inserts made from Japanese WWII-era industrial catalog paper, used to stabilize the mirror within its mount. This repurposing of wartime printed stock is a strong indicator of postwar workshop practices, when materials were scarce but technical expertise remained intact.

• There is thought amongst some at the Laboratory that these artifacts were brought with Japanese scientists shortly after WWII. There are additional pieces that are available in a separate listing.