James Nasmyth, Engineer and Astronomer

Category

Library Item

Item no

3938

Title

James Nasmyth, engineer and astronomer

Description

A man sits at a carved desk holding a thin ruler. He is leaning on leather bound books. A set of dividers are on the table. He is wearing a cravat and waistcoat.

Artist / maker

Hill, David Octavius

Date

1845

Size

19.6 x 14.1 cm

Type

Salted paper print

Location

Edinburgh and Scottish Collection

James Nasmyth, son of the painter Alexander Nasmyth, was born in Edinburgh in 1808. He was educated at the Royal High School, where his interest in engineering began. Nasmyth had a successful and lucrative career in engineering, manufacturing all manner of steam powered locomotives and machines including a patented steam hammer. He retired at the age of 48 to focus on his hobby, astronomy, and in 1874 published a book titled The Moon: Considered as a Planet, a World, and a Satellite.

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Related subjects

Clothing and dress > Accessories > Neckties

Clothing and dress > Garments > Waistcoats

People > Adults > Men

People > Commercial activities > Engineers

Sport and leisure > Activities > Reading and books

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