A particularly attractive late Victorian mahogany and brass large-format field camera, dating to around the 1890s. Constructed from beautifully finished mahogany with extensive brass fittings and dark leather bellows, it has a wonderfully intricate mechanical appearance and makes an exceptional decorative object even aside from its photographic interest.

The camera retains its extending bellows, adjustable front standard, geared focusing mechanism and numerous brass adjustment controls. The rear retains its ground-glass focusing screen in the wooden frame. The front lens board is present with its brass mounting flange, although there is no lens currently fitted. The combination of warm mahogany, aged brass and dark bellows is especially handsome.

The various standards, rails and adjustment mechanisms move, although the camera has not been tested photographically and the bellows have not been checked for complete light-tightness. No lens or separate plate holders are included. There is general age-related wear, marking and patination to the wood and metalwork, all adding nicely to its character.

A superb piece for a photographic collection, studio interior, cabinet of curiosities or as a sculptural antique display object.

Send me the overall dimensions when you have them and I’ll add both cm and inches into the finished listing.