Description

FRENCH THREE-DRAW TELESCOPE OF UNUSUAL PATENTED CONSTRUCTION, c. 1860, signed “Léon Desbordes & Amédée Lipman, rue des Filles de Calvaire, 14, Paris.” and “Breveté, S.G.du G’t.”  This achromatic telescope opens from 7” to 13” (18 – 33 cm) by eye drawtube plus two short central drawtubes.  It is a quick-opening, stable system allowing focus by the first tube.  The two outer “fixed” tubes are tapered, bound in leather, and fitted with carrying rings.  No case is required.  Fine erect images are given by the 1-5/8” diameter achromatic objective and eyepiece system.  There is an eye shutter and partial dust cap.  It is an unusual construction, in very fine condition.

The Parisian makers, Desbordes and Lipman, are credited with various patented mechanical inventions, but are rarely encountered in the marketplace. $950.