ANTIQUE 1870s GRAPHOSCOPE STEREOVIEW CABINET CARD VIEWER  For Sale

Fine Rowsell\'s Patent Graphoscope Stereo Viewer Circa 1875

We are pleased to offer a circa 1870s’ English Graphoscope and Stereo Card Viewer based on Charles John Roswell’s 1864 patent.These devices were used in parlors in order to enhance the viewing of photographs and text. These novelty items consisted of a single magnifying glass and set of lens in a wooden frame, and in an overall construction that could collapse into a compact rectangular form. A photo/cardholder was usually also included. Many devices combined a stereoscope and graphoscope.

The scope is in 100% original condition and shows age and minimal signs of use.The wood appears to be fine mahogany or burr walnut. The wood is split in a few places due to age with the largest being on one side of the large magnifying glass (see last photo).

This version of graphoscope is one of the larger devices at 16 inches long, 9.6 inches wide, and about 4.25 inches high when folded.The rare scope has the original Rowsell\'s Patent Graphoscope label. The focus slides smoothly.The pierced easel, adjustable platform and plinth base with birds-eye interior, and glass elements are in good condition and clean. The brass hinges are in good working condition. The green felt on the bottom appears to be original and shows signs of age and use. Note that the stereo view card shown in the fourth photo is shown to indicate scale and it is not included in this sale.

It is a beautiful viewer and all functions smooth and like it should. Incredible quality and a fine piece of furniture. It would be a welcome addition to any collection of antique and early photographic images and viewing devices.

Check out our other items for sale as we continue to liquidate the contents of a retired antiques dealer.Thank you for your interest.

Please let us know if you have any questions.