Description

A fine, brass camera ludida c.1840. Although unsigned, it is of the highest quality with some unusual features I have not seen before. Rarely used, the prism is perfect, as is the lacquer. This particular model has a round, rotating light filter and an unusually shaped light reducing stop. The C-clamp for a tabletop/easel has TWO knurled screws (one external and one internal) to secure it and lock it at any angle. A very innovative addition to this artist’s aid. The three section arm extends to 18 inches with the usual demarcations for distance from 1-10 and thereby infinity for landscape sketching. The brown/maroon card case has scuffs around the tiny C-hooks at the front and some fading from light exposure but has a fine, red velvet interior and with hinges intact. It measures almost 10 x 3 x 1 inch deep (24 x 7.5 x 2.5 cm.). A very good example and I am surprised it bears no signature. Late Regency period.