Over the past decade, Oxford Biosciences has experienced incredible growth and success, thanks in no small part to your continued support and trust in our services. We are proud of what we have accomplished together and grateful for your partnership.
Thank you for helping us reach this important milestone! We look forward to many more years of superlative service, growth, and success.
We celebrated our 10th anniversary with an excursion to Hampton Court Palace!
We were thrilled to enjoy this treat with most regulatory staff members, but we also want to acknowledge and appreciate the dedicated team members who remained in our office and laboratory, ensuring the smooth operation of our business during this time.
As we commemorate the scientific progress we’ve made in the past ten years, it is awe-inspiring to ponder the achievements of the 16th century, despite the lack of modern conveniences that we benefit from in the 21st century.
Hampton Court Palace was built and expanded over several decades, starting from 1515 under the reign of King Henry VIII. The palace reflects the architectural and scientific advancements of the time, although it is important to note that the 16th century was still part of the early modern period, and many of the significant scientific and technological advancements we know today were yet to be discovered. Nevertheless, the palace showcases a few notable features that highlight the scientific understanding and innovations of the era:
- Tudor brickwork: During the 16th century, brick was becoming a popular building material in England. Hampton Court Palace is an excellent example of the skillful and decorative brickwork from this period. The bricks were made locally, and their use showcases the advancement in brick-making technology and the expertise of craftsmen in constructing large and intricate structures.
- Astronomical clock: Installed in 1540, the Hampton Court astronomical clock is a remarkable example of the scientific knowledge and craftsmanship of the time. The clock displays the time, the date, the phases of the moon, and the positions of the sun and major planets. It also indicates the time of high tide at London Bridge, which was crucial information for river travel. This clock demonstrates the advancements in timekeeping, mechanical engineering, and astronomy during the 16th century.
- Gardens and water features: Hampton Court Palace features extensive gardens, which were designed and laid out using the contemporary knowledge of horticulture and landscaping. The palace also had innovative water features, such as fountains and waterworks, which showcased advancements in hydraulics and water engineering.
- The Great Hall and the hammer-beam roof: The Great Hall is a magnificent example of the grand and impressive architecture of the time. The hall features a hammer-beam roof, which was an innovative structural design that allowed for large open spaces without the need for central supporting columns. This type of roof was a significant advancement in carpentry and structural engineering during the Tudor period.
- Indoor plumbing and heating: Although clearly not as advanced as modern systems, Hampton Court Palace had some early forms of indoor plumbing, such as garderobes (toilets) and conduits for water supply. The palace also featured enormous fireplaces and chimneys for heating, which were considered modern advancements at the time.
While these features might not represent groundbreaking scientific advancements by today’s standards, they do illustrate the level of knowledge, skill, and innovation during the 16th century. Hampton Court Palace stands as a testament to the architectural, engineering, and artistic achievements of the Tudor period.
We are truly inspired!
