Antique stereo graphoscope. Circa 1880. History in three dimensions
A charming late Victorian (circa 1880) stereo graphoscope - used for magnifying Cartes Postales and for viewing stereo photographs in glorious 3D! The instrument comprises a hinged viewing platform with fretwork stand, a large swing out magnifying lens for viewing postcards and hinged twin eyepieces for stereo work. The viewing platform can be set to various angles according to the personal preference of the user, and the slide carrier slides backwards and forwards to allow precise focusing and stereo adjustment, and the entire instrument folds flat for ease of storage when not in use.
It is finished in a beautiful close-grained veneer which retains good colour and shine despite its 150 years or so of age. These instruments are tremendous fun, with an astonishing three dimensional effect that really brings history to life. The illusion is achieved by bringing together two almost. Identical photographs, each taken from a slightly different angle.
42cm long, 26cm wide and 51cm maximum height when in use, 12cm when folded. Oodwork is generally excellent and is still protected by its original French Polish showing only minor scuffs and scratches but otherwise with good colour and shine. The fretwork is generally very good, other than for missing a small section to the slide carrier as shown in the pictures.
The slide carrier would originally have had two brass clips for holding the stereocards in position but these are missing. Nonetheless these clips aren't really needed as the stereocards sit perfectly well in the grooved channel below. All lenses are in good order and deliver an excellent three dimensional effect.
The original ground glass screen has a couple of surface marks but is free from cracks and chips. At some time in the distant past the lower frame has been strengthened with two screws, as can be seen in the penultimate image. There are also replacement hinges to the viewing platform, as per the last image.
The above information is provided in the interests of transparency - as can be seen from the images, this remains an extremely attractive item and is keenly priced. Please be assured that this item will be very carefully packed and promptly dispatched. Many thanks for taking the time to look.