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19th Century German “Magic Lantern” Image Projector with Brass Lens

$1,565
£1,189.74
€1,388.81
CA$2,197.37
A$2,492.96
CHF 1,305.40
MX$30,756.45
NOK 16,186.69
SEK 15,487.55
DKK 10,359.23
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About the Item

A captivating piece of pre-cinema history, this 19th-century German "magic lantern" image projector is an evocative relic from the dawn of visual storytelling. Crafted circa 1890, this collector's piece features a beautifully patinated brass lens, a vented iron chimney, and a classic black enameled tin body, all resting on petite bracket feet. Originally illuminated by an oil lamp, this lantern was used to project hand-painted glass slides in darkened parlors and lecture halls, making it a quite enchanting precursor to the motion picture projector. The brass lens housing includes its original round lens cap and working focus mechanism. The rear still features the original removable oil lamp, complete with its three brass wick adjusters and protective housing, which can be accessed from both the back and side doors. A must-have for collectors of early photographic equipment, cinematic artifacts, or lovers of Victorian and steampunk decor! Complete with its original interior components and in excellent antique condition for display.

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