Antique Camera Lucida in Magnificent Condition. Paris, 1900

This article is a camera lucida made in Paris the early 20th century (1900) by H. Morin. The instrument comes in its original case and draws our attention for its excellent condition and working order. The set preserves all the original lenses, component parts and screws. It also contains a soft cloth for cleaning the glasses. The name camera lucida is the Latin denomination for light room. This instrument was invented in 1880 by William H. Wollaston to draw objects directly from nature. To operate the instrument, it has to be attached to a plank or table with the metal clamp included. Then, the user will choose a glass lens t reproduce the object with the desired quality and will put it in its place, so he or she can focus it on the object. The camera lucida will project the image on the paper or plank. The instrument that we can see in these images was made by Henri Morin, founder of the Ateliers H. Morin in Paris in 1880. The ateliers manufactured design, topography and artillery instruments. Morins company became one of the most important French firms in its field and was still active in the second half of the 20th century. This particular piece is made of chrome-plated metal and shows no signs of rust or wear. The clamp used to attach the camera lucida to the table bears an engraved inscription: CHAMBRE CLAIRE UNIVERSELLE MODELE DEPOSÉ. On the other hand, the beautiful case where the instrument is stored is outside covered by black leather; the lid bears the manufacturers mark printed in one corner. Inside, the case is lined with red velvet. Both linings are in magnificent condition. Functional and attractive, this turn-of-the-century camera lucida is a very interesting article that can still be used to draw. Measurement: Width: 11 in / 28 cm. Depth: 2.4 in / 6 cm.