Antique Unis France Stereoscope Paris France For Sale

Antique Unis France Stereoscope Paris France

The Antique Unis France Stereoscope from Paris, France is a captivating piece of early 20th-century photographic history, crafted by Mattey of Paris under the prestigious "Unis" trademark, reserved for their finest instruments. This stereoscope, often dating to around 1910, is designed to view stereoscopic images, creating a three-dimensional effect by presenting two slightly offset images to each eye. Typically constructed from ebonized beech wood with applied amboyna veneers or polished metal for portable models, it exemplifies Art Nouveau or Victorian aesthetics with its elegant, functional design.

A notable example is the tabletop model, featuring adjustable stereoscopic eyepieces for focus and separation, and a sophisticated slide-change mechanism driven by rotating cogs. The cabinet base may house six cartridges, each holding up to 25 glass slides (130mm x 58mm), showcasing scenes from antiquity, landscapes, or even anatomical studies, such as a human heart. Some models, like the folding travel version, are compact (measuring approximately 5" wide x 1" deep x 2.5" tall) and made of lightweight metal, marked "UNIS FRANCE PARIS STEREOSCOPES 76 3." The internal mirror, often original, may show de-silvering, slightly dimming illumination, but the lenses typically remain clean and bright, free of haze or scratches.

Bearing labels like “Unis France Stereoscopes, Mattey, Paris” and serial numbers (e.g., 4302 on the brass sole plate), these devices reflect the craftsmanship of the Union Nationale Inter-Syndicale (1919–1939). Despite minor wear—scuffs, scratches, or small dings—the stereoscope remains in good working condition, offering clear visuals and a nostalgic glimpse into early visual storytelling. A prized collectible, it ranges in price from $325 to $4,550, with an average of $800, making it a stunning addition to any antique photography collection.