Verascope camera by Richard Frères. France, Circa 1915. With Original Case

Great vintage Verascope stereo camera designed by Jules Richard and commercialized by Richard Frères in the early 20th century (circa 1915). This device is designed to reproduce photographic images on glass plates. The model became very popular in those years and the one we are looking at has survived to our days in good condition. The camera works fine and comes with its original case, made of real leather. The article is quite well preserved. The cameras metal case bears the models name, VERASCOPE, engraved in the metal. It is accompanied by the inscription Bte. S.C.D.G. and the companys mark with the acronym RF. Just below these inscriptions we can see the cameras serial number, 5443. The French company Richard Frères launched a series of stereo cameras under the name of Verascope that were commercialized until the 1950s. The companys founder, Jules Richard, is considered one of the fathers of stereoscopic photography: he developed the 45x107mm format glass plates that led to the design of the first portable stereo cameras. At the front of the camera, in the part where we can see the two lenses and their protecting leather covers, there is an engraved P letter that identifies the release. The camera can be separated in two parts, the front camera itself and the rear charger for the glass plates. The metal case is protected by a black-lacquered finish, in quite good condition and showing only slight signs of the trace of time and use. These details make us certain that this is a functional, non-decorative piece. This Verascope camera is a faithful witness of the early times of stereoscopic photography, an attractive article full of personality. Measurements: Width: 5.5 in/14 cm. Depth: 3.9 in/10 cm.