Historical information

Box cameras were first produced in the late 19th century and were intended to be used by amateur photographers. This type of camera was a simple one with the lens at one end and the film at the other and the provision for 12 photographic plates. The spring-loaded lens folded into the camera and one side of the box served as a base for the lens to sit on. Cameras of this size and shape were made until the mid 1920s.

Significance

This camera case is retained for display purposes.

Physical description

This is a wooden rectangular box which is covered in black leather. The box is a camera case and has a top lid with metal hinges and metal clips and five glass apertures. There are two knobs or buttons which were originally adjustable mechanisms and the remnants of a leather strap on one side of the box. The leather on the outside is partially torn away. Inside the box the photographic mechanisms and the lens are missing but there is a part of the metal spring still evident. There are also eight photographic plates loose inside the box.