Riley Brothers, Bradford Victoriaanse toverlantaarn "The Praestantia" - ca. 1890-1895 Magic lantern

Victorian-era magic lantern "The Praestantia" - Riley Brothers, Bradford

Riley Brothers were founded around 1883-1887 in Bradford, England, by the sons of textile entrepreneur Joseph Riley — Herbert and William, later also Sam and Joseph. The company became one of the world’s largest magic lantern traders, with a branch in New York and agents in seven American cities. They primarily sold lanterns, slides, and accessories, and ran a large slide rental operation.

The Praestantia appears in advertisements from 1894 (perhaps introduced a little earlier), advertised as "the best oil lantern ever seen".

England, ca. 1890-1895

Brass projection lens (7 inches) with a three-part extendable/telescoping tube, black-painted sheet steel lamp housing with a chimney for the four-burner oil lamp and air vents for ventilation. Marked on the lens and on the brass base plate.

In good used condition, with signs of wear and spots: age-appropriate patina but intact, complete lens with cap and the brass plate readable

Dimensions:
approx. 43 cm L
approx. 26 cm H
approx. 13 cm W

Weight: 5 kg+/-

Will be well packed and insured shipping.