Collection of 5 Antique Folding Stereoscopes. 1910 - 1950

Striking collection of 5 antique foldable stereoscopes made between 1910 and 1950, very well preserved and all of them in working order. This is a selection of five rare and exclusive models; they were mostly for tourist use, as they were bought by travelers so they could view cardboard plates from the places they visited. This collection is composed of two bigger models, two smaller and rectangular ones and a curious silvery-metal viewer with desk stand that resembles a pair of eyeglasses. They are made of different materials and are in good condition, though some models do show some slight signs of the trace of time and use. The two bigger trapezoid models are very similar. They are made of some rigid light material, maybe plywood or cardboard, covered by black fabric. The fabric acts as a hinge to fold and unfold the casings. These models bases act as storing cases too; the top lid turns into the casings lid. Once folded, they are rectangular and flat and scarcely take any room. One of the two stereoscopes bears a riveted metal plate with the inscription STÉRÉOSCOPE PARISIEN in golden lettering on a black background. The fabric lining is well preserved tough some places show some signs of wear. These devices are designed to watch 9x16 plates. The collection includes two smaller stereoscopes, in this case made of black-enameled metal sheet. They are rectangular in shape and bear the embossed inscription R. Standard I System-Derpsch at the top. In order to unfold and use them, the user must move the bottom lever. They can be used with 3.5x10.5 plates, the size of the antique photograph that we can see in the images. Last but not least, the remaining stereoscope is a curious silvery-metal design composed of a metal stand which supports the eyeglass-shaped viewer. Under it we can see the plate stage for 6x23 stereoscopic plates. This model comes in its original storing case, a fine cardboard box outside covered by turquoise paper. Every lover of charming antiques will appreciate this fine collection of 5 foldable antique stereoscopes, a set of rare and exclusive models in great working order.