Antique French Graphoscope, France 1900

Antique French graphoscope Souvenir from Paris with 29 stereoscopic photographs, made circa 1900 and in amazing condition. This is quite a special piece, composed of three solid-wooden parts with a fine ebony-like finish and original carved decoration. The graphoscope comes with 29 stereoscopic photographs, also original from the time and showing different black and white landscapes. The device has two functions: the big-sized top magnifier is designed to view postcards and photographs, while the small-sized bottom lenses make it possible to watch stereoscopic images such as the ones which come with the graphoscope. The inner photo holder can be adjusted in length so the user can get a perfect focus when using the device as a stereoscope. The graphoscope is composed of three wooden parts: a bottom box which acts as a base, a central tray with the photo holder and the lid, which mounts the lenses and the eyepieces. The three parts are connected by hinges; at the base there is a black-painted wooden piece which supports the device when in use. At the lid, the lenses mount black-lacquered metal eyepieces; the surface is decorated with small carved flowers and details which frame the inscription Souvenir de Paris. Graphoscopes were particularly popular items between the 19th and the 20th centuries. Though we cannot be completely sure, it is thought that the invention was patented in 1865 by Charles John Rowsell (1802-1882). As attractive as functional, this antique French graphoscope Souvenir from Paris with 29 stereoscopic photographs is a real collectors piece. Dimensions (Folded): Width: 9 in / 22.5 cm. Depth: 5.8 in / 14.5 cm. Height: 2.6 in / 6.5 cm.