Claudet viewing case

Region: United Kingdom    Period: 1850–1890    Tag: Claudet

Antoine Claudet’s design was the first viewing case for stereo daguerreotypes. He patented his design in 1853. The patent included multiple case designs, not all of which were likely realised. The common case is a foldable viewer that is made of leather. Unlike comparable cases, the eyepieces with lenses protrude from the front panel.

The viewing case was primarily intended for customers whom Claudet had portrayed. It allowed them to view their portrait, and when folded, the daguerreotype was protected. The daguerreotypes within the case were interchangeable and could be released from the frame by means of a cord.

Related items: Claudet, Antoine

Specifications:

Classification:
Hand-held / Single-view / Folding / Viewing-case
Introduction:
1853
Designer:
Antoine Claudet
Construction:
Leather
System:
Open
Medium:
Daguerreotype
Format:
c. 8.3 x 18
Lens:
Convex
Lens focus:
Yes
Inter-ocular adjustment:
Yes

Patents and registrations:

Number: 711
Filing: 23-03-1853, Applicant(s): Antoine Claudet

Further reading:

  • Wing, Paul. Stereoscopes: The first one hundred years (1996) , pp. 75-77
Published: 25-03-2026    Last modified: 27-03-2026