Beautiful Antique Magic Lantern in Very Good Condition. Late 19th Century

This appealing piece is an antique magic lantern in excellent condition. This article was manufactured in the late 19th century, and in spite of being more than one hundred years old it has survived to our days as beautiful as when it was originally made. The lantern was wired decades ago and includes a stand with a bulb. This device can be wired and electrified in order to operate securely the lantern, but even without this feature the piece is quite decorative and constitutes a real find for every lover of photo-related antiques.The lenses are in good condition. The history of magic lanterns is truly fascinating. Christiaan Hugyens is believed to have been the first one in making one in the 1650s, though there are written testimonies of former similar designs. The adjective magic refers to the aim they were originally intended to, as they were mainly used to create ghosts, spirits and even the devil with the intention of deceiving the viewers. Hugyenss invent was called lantern of fright for its capacity of projecting images that simulated apparitions. In the centuries that followed, magic lanterns were used to this kind of deceits and also in public shows. In the late 19th century they started being related to cinematography and were used even to project pornographic images. This magic lantern has a black-enameled metal-sheet case, well preserved and with the finish in great condition. It shows quite few signs of rust or wear and is an exhibition-worthy piece. It preserves the original lens with the brass body and lid made of the same metal, and also the focus screw. The metal stand for the electric bulb was probably the stand for the oil burner, but it was adapted later in order to make the magic lanterns operation easier and safer. Fascinating and full of history, this antique magic lantern preserves all its mysterious charm and power of attraction. Measurements: Width: 17.5 cm / 44.5 cm. Height: 8.8 in / 22.5 in.