Nostalgic Camera Lucida in Very Good Condition. France, Circa 1900

Silvery-metal camera lucida made in France circa 1900 and in its original old-time case. This article is a very special piece that has survived to our days in strikingly good condition. All the devices component parts are original and move softly and fluidly. The camera lucida can be used to reproduce images on a paper or any other drawing material, just as when it was made. The bright metal it is made of looks shiny and even, with no traces of rust or wear. The clamp designed to attach the camera lucida to the table or drawing desk bears the following engraved inscription: P.B. CHAMBRE CLAIRE UNIVERSELLE MODELE DEPOSÉ P. BERVILLE 25, Chausée dAntin. PARIS. This name corresponds to the most renowned and prestigious makers of these instruments of France, P. Berville. The camera lucida is an ingenious device invented by William H. Wollaston in 1880. Its name comes from the Latin camera lucida meaning lighted room. In order to use it, the clamp must be attached to the table; then, the user will choose the right lens for the drawing. Once attached to the table or desk, the user will have to move the articulated arm to focus the lens toward the object to be drawn. The camera lucida will project its image on the paper, canvas or plank where it will be drawn. The item that we can see in these images comes with all its original lenses, greatly preserved and ready to be used. The case where it can be stored once folded is the original one too and bears the makers signature (P. BERVILLE) printed in golden lettering inside the cover. Outside the case is covered by black faux leather in really good condition; inside it is protected with a lovely red lining, also very well preserve. This antique camera lucida can be a wonderful gift for a professional illustrator who appreciates the beauty of old-time instruments. Measurements (Case): Width: 11 in / 28 cm. Depth: 2.5 in / 6.5 cm.