A superb antique library telescope on a brass folding tripod dating from the mid to late 19th Century. It was made by Bate of London and the end of the tube is engraved with the makers name. The telescope itself is made of brass and the main tube is covered in mahogany. It has an extendable eyepiece, controlled by the rack and pinion focus knob on the side of the tube, plus an additional tube which is manually adjusted to provide the coarse focus. It also comes with its original brass lens cover.
The telescope is mounted to a short folding brass tripod. Two screws below the telescope fix it onto the stand. The stand allows the telescope to swivel completely around and move up and down.
Both the telescope and stand are in good original condition and display well - a real statement piece. The brass has been lightly polished and the mahogany has also been polished. There are no major damages and the optics are very good. The lenses are undamaged and produce a clear and crisp image with a good range and clear focus. There are some signs of age and use, some minor dinks, dents and small knocks and marks to the tube but nothing detrimental.
The telescope comes in its original mahogany box with felt lined fitted interior. The box has a brass carrying handle, two brass closing latches and it comes with its original working key. There have been some old repairs around the box and there are some marks and knocks and minor splits but it has a beautiful patina and is strong and sturdy.
