C.1840-50 adjustable papier mache magnifying graphoscope viewer in the form of a box all hand made from England is hand painted with white floral and blue forget-me-knots on the top and sides of the black lacquered three layer box with beveled edges.Every aristocratic home of the 19th century has one of these set up for viewing with family and friends in various magnifications the post cards from their most recent extensive travels.Makes a decorative adjustable magnifier for all objects for this generation.The box folds flat with two brass latches at either end when not in use making a perfect accent piece. Large 5 inch magnifier in top. One box layer contains a movable rack much like a music rack with metal poles used to hold the post cards,rubber tipped which adjusts to any angle for placing the piece to be magnified below glass. More magnification if the lower box level is used in conjunction which has a wooden easel and three slot adjustment. Ingenious device both very functional and attractive.Excellent condition,very slight wear to black paint at rim of magnifier.Measures 11 L X 6.75 W X 3.5 H when closed.Item ID: WC28305