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Unknown 1890s American Folding Camera

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larsbepi's likes1 of 2Lancaster & Son Le Merveilleux 1/6 Plate 1900Lancaster & Son Le Merveilleux 1/6 Plate 1900
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    Posted 13 years ago

    rniederman
    (347 items)

    I have a soft-spot for American 1890s red bellows, self-casing cameras; and can identify the vast majority. Of course there are always a couple that refuse to be labeled.

    The camera shown here is a puzzle. It has extraordinary craftsmanship and materials are first rate: Finely pebbled body leather, strong red leather bellows, robust brass hardware, huge German optical glass, and fine furniture quality wooden interior. There are also unique details and features not found in any maker's catalogue such as an innovative brass rear extension with full swings and tilts.

    Based on the construction and design, the camera probably dates to c.1899. Yet I’ve stared at it for years and unable to find a reference.

    Which factory produced this camera and what model name was intended for the blank brass plaque? Why all the subtle attention to detail such as wood turned 45 degrees to increase strength and a parquet panel bed for warp resistance?

    I might not know the answers today, but maybe someday the maker will be found.

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    Comments

    1. rniederman rniederman, 12 years ago
      Thanks, Eric!
    2. rniederman rniederman, 12 years ago
      Thanks, Scott!
    3. rniederman rniederman, 12 years ago
      Thanks, mustangtony!
    4. rniederman rniederman, 11 years ago
      Thanks, aghcollect and Sean!
    5. rniederman rniederman, 10 years ago
      Thanks, Windwalker!
    6. rniederman rniederman, 7 years ago
      Thanks, oldpeep!

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