Lot # 4 - Antique Mirroscope-Opaque Projector or “Magic Lantern”

Opening Bid : $ 5.00
Start Date/Time: 29-Jul-2025 7:00:00 AM
End Date/Time: 05-Aug-2025 7:03:00 PM
Current bid:

$40.00

Highest bidder:

Asha

Auction has ended

Description :

Antique Mirroscope – Opaque Projector / "Magic Lantern" 
Early 20th-Century Visual Entertainment Device with Classic Charm

This Antique Mirroscope is a fascinating example of early projection technology, often referred to as a “Magic Lantern” or opaque projector. Designed to project printed images, postcards, or photographs onto a wall or screen, the Mirroscope represents a transitional moment between Victorian parlor entertainment and modern film projection.

 Key Features:

  • Type: Opaque projector (reflects light off opaque images rather than transmitting light through transparencies)

  • Maker: [Insert manufacturer if known, e.g., Ernst Plank, Keystone, or unbranded]

  • Era: Early 1900s – often used in classrooms, parlors, or traveling presentations

  • Construction: Typically made of enameled metal or tin, with glass lenses and internal light housing

  • Design: Classic box-style with hinged panels or removable top for loading images

  • Power: Originally used kerosene lamp or early electric lightbulb (non-functional or rewired for safety in many vintage models)

 Historical Significance:

  • A forerunner to slide projectors and movie projectors

  • Known as the “Magic Lantern” due to the seemingly magical projection of still images

  • Popular for education, entertainment, and storytelling before motion pictures became widespread

  • Now a cherished collectible for lovers of antique technology, early cinema, or optical instruments

Untested. 


Dimensions : 10 in W x 7.5 in H x 11 in D

Auction History

Highest bidder is Asha

Date Bid User
05-Aug-2025 6:55:01 PM $40.00 Asha
05-Aug-2025 6:55:01 PM $40.00 Kingsland
05-Aug-2025 6:31:09 PM $37.00 Asha
05-Aug-2025 6:29:08 PM $26.00 Kingsland
05-Aug-2025 2:53:13 PM $22.00 Asha
04-Aug-2025 8:23:40 AM $17.00 Acorn
04-Aug-2025 8:23:24 AM $12.00 Kingsland
04-Aug-2025 8:23:24 AM $11.00 Acorn
30-Jul-2025 8:13:13 PM $7.00 Kingsland
29-Jul-2025 11:31:44 AM $6.00 FlowerFox11
29-Jul-2025 8:42:51 AM $5.00 publiussulla

PAYMENT DETAILS

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Invoices are emailed to winning bidders once the sale has completely closed.Full payment must be made by 8:00 p.m. the day after auction closes. If total payment is not received before the pick-up date & time, items will be forfeited, and bidding privileges revoked.

Pick-up information will be on the invoice e-mailed after the auction closes.All items not picked up during the designated times will be considered abandoned and may be donated or resold. When possible, and at our sole discretion, an alternate pick-up time may be arranged. If this is possible, an appropriate fee will be charged. 

A 10% Buyer's Premium and Sales Tax are added to the winning bid amount when invoiced. Sales tax is waived for licensed re-sellers.

We make every effort to describe lot items as accurately as possible. Expect normal signs of wear associated with antiques, vintage, and used items. We do not list every flaw. All items are sold AS IS WHERE IS. No refunds or returns. Sound Estate Company does not guarantee the working order of any clock, watch, electronic or mechanical device. Dimensions given may be approximate.

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