The Matagraph cinematograph

Details
The Matagraph cinematograph
Levi, Jones & Co. Ltd., London; 35mm., the mahogany-body stamped 11, hand-crank, brass bound lens, lacquered-brass beater movement, rear metal safety shutter, top-mounting film-holder, lantern-slide holder and metal lamphouse with chimney, in maker's original box with lacquered brass fixing screws

Literature
John Barnes (1983), Pioneers of the British Film, p. 105-107.
Further details
See illustration

Lot Essay

The Matagraph was issued by Levi in 1898 although Barnes suggests that it may have been introduced at the end of 1897. Barnes states 'by which time [February 1898] 200 of the machines had...already been sold. During the course of its existence, the projector was constantly being improved and at least four different models are known'. This example appears to be the improved model dating from around June 1898.

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