Sperm observations by van Leeuwenhoek, from a letter of 1700. The first and last figures (1 and 7) are by Dutch physicist Nicolaas Hartsoeker, with th
Sperm observations by van Leeuwenhoek, from a letter of 1700. The first and last figures (1 and 7) are by Dutch physicist Nicolaas Hartsoeker, with the other drawings by Dutch scientist Antonie van Leeuwenhoek (1632-1723). Van Leeuwenhoek built his own microscopes and was able to study the natural world in greater detail than was previously possible. His observations included protozoa, bacteria, insects, plants, minerals, blood cells, and the first observations of sperm (1677). His earliest observations were published in 1673, and over the next 50 years he self-published and wrote hundreds of letters detailing his discoveries. This page is from Letter 135 to Hans Sloane, written 25 December 1700 and objecting to Hartsoeker's depictions of sperm. This copy of the letter is from 'Sevende Vervolg' (1702).
Size: 2969px × 4134px
Photo credit: © LIBRARY OF CONGRESS, RARE BOOK AND SPECIAL COLLECTIONS DIVISION/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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