Antique Stereoscope Le Taxiphote. France 1900

Nostalgic antique automatic Le Taxiphote stereoscope, complete and in excellent condition. This singular device was made in France in 1900 and has survived to our days as beautiful and well-preserved as it can be appreciated in the photographs. This model was invented and designed by Jules Richard, famous French inventor and engineer considered one of the fathers of photography. The stereoscope keeps all its original component parts and pieces, including the chargers with complete collections of photographic plates with images of Spain, Europe and World War I. The plates are stored in the small cabinet with drawers located at the bottom of the stereoscope; the door preserves the original lock and key in working order. The stereoscope has a solid mahogany wooden casing in great condition and with the original satin finish. At the top of the casing, just under the metal and black-plastic eyepieces we can see two plates with the models name (LE TAXIPHOTE) and the instructions of use, clearly detailed. The item preserves all the silvery-metal component parts and pieces essential to use the device, as well as the complete inner mechanism that enables the user to view the plates. The bottom cabinet mounts two side metal handles to carry the stereoscope easily. Evocative and good looking, this antique Le Taxiphote stereoscope is an original old-time article that will shine in the best collection of cameras and photo-related objects. Measurements: Bases Width: 11 in / 28 cm. Height: 19.29 in / 49 cm.History of Jules Richard Jules Richard was born in 1848. He was a famous French engineer and inventor, known as one of the fathers of photography. His father Felix invented the first metallic barometer in Paris and started a family business. After his death in 1876 the company was almost bankrupt: Jules took over and in 1880 he invented a recording barometer which became quite popular. In the following years the firm widened its production and reached a remarkable success. Along the way Richard became quite interested in stereoscopic photography and designed highly popular cameras such as the Verascope.