LOOKING BACK

Many of the modern technological marvels of science are derived from very basic prototypes, but beat this! This apparatus was conceived and built around 1820, but in its current form you will find it has transcended its utilitarian design to attain iconic status – it is even, dare we say, sometimes intimidating, but more often comforting. Clue: its inventor was a talented flautist, who carved his own instruments – are we getting the picture?

We know you can Google, but where’s the fun in that? Tell us what you think it is. The correct answer – and/or the most creative – will be published in our next issue.

Send your hunches to contribute@cosmosmagazine.com