A beautifully-made antique 'Sanderson' half plate folding field camera, mostly likely dating to the early 1900s, sold together with two correctly fitting double dark slide plate holders and a desirable 11" Aplanat lens by Hermagis of Paris.

F H Sanderson was a cabinet maker with an interest in architectural photography. In 1895, he patented a distinctive system of slotted struts that enabled a camera's lens board to be moved vertically, tilted and adjusted forwards and backwards - a system that was particularly suited to photographing buildings without distortion. The cameras are well-known for their fine quality. They were made under licence by George Houghton and Sons of London, whose initials also appear on the two maker's plates on this camera.

This particular example comes complete with two correctly-fitting double dark slide plate holders and a superb - possibly earlier - brass lens by the renowned French maker, Hermagis of Paris - engraved to one side "No 23980, Hermagis Optn. Fabt. Bte. S.G.D.G, Paris" and to the other "Apl No 6". It has a focal length of approximately 280mm (11").

The camera stands 26cm high and measures 36cm at maximum extension.

Condition: This camera survives in superb, original and unrestored condition with minimal minor age-related wear. The woodwork is excellent, still with its original French Polish, retaining great colour and shine and bearing only a few very minor scuffs and scratches. The bellows are in very good condition and completely light-tight. The double extension bellows adjustment operates smoothly without slippage to the rack and pinion. The brass components retain their original protective lacquer, with minor wear and oxidation. The leather handle is present, as are both makers plates and spirit level to the top. The lens is in excellent condition, its optics in good condition and free from cracks, chips, scratches, haze and fungus. There are, however, some light marks to the front couplet, not immediately obvious and only visible when viewed at an angle and under studio lighting - I've done my best to capture these in the last image. The brasswork is still protected by its original lacquer, with good colour and just a few surface marks. The lens comes with its original lens cap and a protective felt bag. There are no waterhouse stops. The cameras makes for a fine display piece but could also be used if you have the requisite skills.

Overseas buyers welcome - please use the contact form to request a shipping quotation.