12. Reflex Camera Obscura, early 19th century

Unsigned.

Sliding box version. Mahogany box with inclined plane mirror as in previous model. The two-element lens (outer one broken) of 77 mm aperture and about 300 mm focal length is mounted on the front of the inner box which slides into the outer box for focusing the upright image onto the horizontal ground screen which is shaded by a hinged flap. The lens is protected by a cap of varnished fabric and paper. This is the type Robert Hunt would have used in 1839 (Item 66).

Length 345 mm.
Inventory no. 78,618.