Antique Metal Magic Lantern in Excellent Condition. England, Circa 1880

This curious and decorative item is a magic lantern original from the 19th century (circa 1880), very well preserved and with all its original component parts. The lantern was manufactured in London by John Wrench & Son, and has survived to our days in amazing condition. We recommend that it should be used only for decorative purposes, as it could be dangerous to light the oil burner. It is also possible to electrify it with a socket and the proper wiring. The lantern has black-enameled metal-sheet body, folding chimney and golden-brass objective, details that make up a very special and beautiful piece.The lenses are in good condition. The metal lid covering the lens bears a golden inscription with the manufacturing companys logo and monogram: JW TRADE MARK LONDON MADE ESTABLISHED IN 1816. It belongs to John Wrench & Son, a family business founded in 1816 in Grays Inn Road, London. The firm manufactured magic lanterns and cinema pieces. In the 1880s and the 1990s they produced a large number of slides on a wholesale basis so the brand name rarely appears on catalogues. In the early 20th century the firm merged with Cinema Traders Ltd. The magic lantern that we can see in the images shows a very well-preserved black metal body. It also keeps the original foldable chimney, made of raw metal sheet and still functional. The original oil burner is also preserved; it was designed to lighten the slides so they could be projected. So is the mahogany wooden stand for the slides. Over the brass lens we find an iron piece with number RºNº 519324 engraved at its top side, while the lenss lid shows another number: RºNº 230577. This antique magic lantern, a witness for the first years of photography and cinematography, will fill any room with charm. Measurements: Height (with Unfolded Chimney): 14.5 in / 37 cm. Width: 17 in / 44.5 cm.