The historic mineralogical instruments collection of the Real Museo Mineralogico, University of Naples Federico II: meaning and value

A previously understudied collection of over 50,000 mineralogical instruments at the Real Museo Mineralogico, University of Naples Federico II, has been systematically documented for the first time. This study reveals its significant scientific and historical value, tracing its origins to 1801 under King Ferdinando IV of Bourbon and Queen Maria Carolina. Through extensive archival research—including analysis of museum documents and state archives—the collection's instruments were cataloged with details on acquisition dates, typologies, uses, suppliers, methods, and prices. The findings highlight the museum's pivotal role in advancing mineralogy in Naples while enriching the broader historical record of scientific instrumentation.

Petti, C., Cappelletti, P., & Pellino, A. (2023). The historic mineralogical instruments collection of the Real Museo Mineralogico, University of Naples Federico II: meaning and value. Journal of the History of Collections, 35(3), 455–466. https://doi.org/10.1093/jhc/fhac052