Please note that I will be away until 26 March. No orders will be processed until my return.

A rare and superb antique Victorian biunial magic lantern, used by professional laternists for achieving sophisticated effects including fades and dissolves.  This example comes equipped with two triple-extension brass-bound lenses each housing a 6" objective, twin acetylene gas illuminants together with their original dissolving apparatus and a good quality pair of R R Beard 'Eclipse' slide changers.  Much sought after by collectors, biunial lanterns of this quality rarely come to the market.  With the lenses extended the lantern measures 78cm from front to back, stands 66cm high and is 26cm wide.  It is a substantial piece of equipment, weighing in at a hefty 18.5kg (nearly 3 stone!).

Condition: This lantern survives in excellent original condition.  The woodwork is generally very good, still protected by its original French Polish which for the most part retains good colour and shine.  There is, however, some heat blistering and surface residue to the sides and more noticeably to the back where there is also a small repair - as evident in the pictures. The brass work is very good, the twin lenses still with their protective lacquer with only minor blemishes.  The optics are extremely clear, free from chips, cracks, haze and fungus.  The focussing adjustment operates correctly, without slippage to the rack and pinion.  The triple-extension lens barrels slide freely within their housing.  Both internal condensing lenses are absent and replacements will need to be sourced if the lantern is to be used.  These frequently crop up on eBay etc at relatively little cost.  Both gas burners and their associated dissolve apparatus are present and in good order, though obviously untested.  The new owner will no doubt want to fit modern LV halogen lighting for a more sophisticated control system without the inherent risk of acetylene.  The tinplate chimney is present and in good condition, with nice patina and just a little surface rust.  Both slide carriers are in very good condition.  This lantern has not been tested. 

Overseas buyers (non EU) are welcome - please make contact for a shipping quotation.