Boerhaave´s Furnace: Exploring Early Modern Chemistry through Working Models

Hendriksen, Marieke M.A.; Verwaal, Ruben E.

Abstract

This article discusses the (re)construction and use of an Early modern instrument, better known as Herman Boerhaave's (1668–1738) little furnace. We investigate the origins, history and materiality of this furnace, and examine the dynamic relationship between historical study and reconstructing and handling an object. We argue that combining textual analysis with performative methods allows us to gain a better understanding of both the role of lost material culture in historical chemical practice, pedagogy, and knowledge production, and provide a deeper understanding of the embodied experiences and knowledge of historical actors. Having made and used two versions of Boerhaave's furnace, we provide insight in what present‐day working models can tell us about historical materials and practices approximately three centuries ago.

Citation

Hendriksen, M. M., & Verwaal, R. E. (2020). Boerhaave´s Furnace: Exploring Early Modern Chemistry through Working Models. Berichte zur Wissenschaftsgeschichte, 43(3), 385-411. https://doi.org/10.1002/bewi.202000005

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Jul 8, 2020
• Online Publication Date: Sep 4, 2020
• Publication Date: 2020-09
• Deposit Date: Jul 9, 2020
• Publicly Available Date: Sep 8, 2020
• Journal: Berichte zur Wissenschaftsgeschichte
• Print ISSN: 0170-6233
• Electronic ISSN: 1522-2365
• Publisher: Wiley-VCH Verlag
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 43
• Issue: 3
• Pages: 385-411
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/bewi.202000005
• Public URL: https://durham-repository.worktribe.com/output/1298151