This is an attractive antique J. Lancaster & Son Rectigraph brass photographic lens with an estimated focal length of approximately 220mm. Manufactured by the well-known Birmingham photographic firm J. Lancaster & Son, this lens represents the quality engineering of the late Victorian photographic era. Lancaster manufactured many of their own lens barrels and mechanical components while using high-quality optical glass sourced from specialist optical makers.
The estimated focal length makes this an excellent portrait lens for half-plate cameras while also providing generous coverage for 4×5 inch large format cameras, including sufficient image circle for camera movements in many situations.
Condition
The brass barrel has developed an attractive aged patina with the honest signs of use expected from a photographic lens of this age. The engraved maker's name remains clear and well defined, giving the lens considerable display appeal as well as photographic interest.
The glass elements are complete and intact. There are the light cleaning marks and small dust particles normally encountered in nineteenth-century photographic optics, but I can find no obvious major chips or cracks.
The iris diaphragm operates smoothly throughout its range. The aperture ring is engraved with the Uniform System aperture scale numbered 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50, corresponding to approximately f/9 to f/44 on this lens. A second scale marked "TIME" provides exposure guidance for use without a mechanical shutter, as was common practice during the period.
No shutter is fitted, which is entirely normal for many lenses of this age intended for use with lens caps or separate shutters.
The original mounting flange is not included. The rear mounting thread measures approximately 50.7mm in diameter (nominally 2 inches and probably Whitworth thread), so the purchaser will need to provide a suitable mounting solution, such as machining a flange or fitting the lens to a custom lens board.
Approximate Measurements
Focal length: approximately 220mm.
Approximate aperture range: f/9 to f/44.
Maximum aperture diameter: approximately 25mm.
Minimum aperture diameter: approximately 5mm.
Overall barrel length: approximately 64.7mm.
Maximum barrel diameter: approximately 54.1mm.
Rear mounting thread: approximately 50.7mm (nominally 2 inches).
Applications & Collectability
Victorian brass photographic lenses continue to be highly sought after by collectors of antique cameras, large format photographers, wet plate collodion practitioners and photographers interested in historical photographic processes. The Rectigraph is equally suitable as a collector's piece, a restoration project for a period camera, or for practical use on half-plate and 4×5 inch cameras where classic nineteenth-century rendering is desired.
Its attractive brass construction, engraved Lancaster markings and fully functioning iris make it an appealing addition to any collection of antique photographic equipment or Victorian optical instruments.
Included
The sale is for the J. Lancaster & Son Rectigraph brass lens exactly as shown in the photographs. No mounting flange or shutter is included.
Please examine all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description and accurately illustrate the cosmetic condition of this antique photographic lens.
This antique J. Lancaster & Son Rectigraph brass photographic lens is suitable for collectors of Victorian cameras, large format photography, half-plate cameras, 4×5 inch cameras, wet plate collodion photography, dry plate photography, historical photographic demonstrations, alternative photographic processes, antique optical instruments, brass camera lenses and photographic restoration projects.
