Antique Metal Magic Lantern in Excellent Condition. England, Circa 1880

Antique Metal Magic Lantern in Excellent Condition. England, Circa 1880

This curious and decorative item is an original 19th-century magic lantern (circa 1880), very well preserved and featuring each and every one of its parts and components. The lantern was manufactured in London, England, by John Wrench & Son and is in very good condition. It is recommended to use it solely as a decorative item due to the potential danger of lighting the kerosene burner. It is also possible to electrify it with a socket and the appropriate wiring. The lantern features a black-enameled sheet metal body, a fold-out chimney, and a gilded brass lens, making it a truly beautiful and unique piece. The lenses are in good condition.

On the metal cover over the lens, there is a gold inscription featuring the manufacturers logo and monogram: JW TRADE MARK - LONDON MADE - ESTABLISHED IN 1816. This refers to John Wrench & Son, a family-owned company founded in 1816 on Grays Inn Road in London. The firm specialized in manufacturing magic lanterns and parts for cinematographs. Between 1880 and 1900, they produced a large number of slides, in this case for wholesale; for this reason, the brand name does not usually appear on these products. In the early 20th century, the company merged with Cinema Traders Ltd.

The magic lantern shown in the photos features a black-enameled metal casing in good condition. Above it stands the fold-out chimney, made of unlacquered metal and still in working order. The original kerosene burner, designed to illuminate the slides for projection, is also preserved, as is the mahogany holder where the slides are placed. Above the lens is an iron piece with the number RºNº 519324 engraved on its upper part, while another number appears on the lens cap: RºNº 230577.

This antique magic lantern, a relic from the early days of photography and cinematography, will add charm to any room.

Dimensions: Height (with the chimney extended): 37 cm. Width: 44.5 cm.