Graphoscope. France, Circa 1900

Graphoscope. France, Circa 1900.
Wood with ebonized finish and carved decoration.
Measurements: 22 x 14 x 8 cm.
The graphoscope is made up of three wooden pieces: a lower box that serves as a base, a central box where the stand is located and the lid, with the lenses and eyepieces. The parts are hinged together; at the base, a black painted wooden stand holds the device when in use. On the lid, the lenses have black lacquered metal eyepieces; the surface is decorated with small flowers and details, carved by hand, accompanying the inscription "Souvenir de Paris". The graphoscope was a very popular device between the 19th and 20th centuries; although it is not known for certain, it is believed that the invention was patented in 1865 by Charles John Rowsell (1802-1882).