Antique J H Steward refracting brass telescope floor mount wood stand c. 1900

Description

J.H.Steward Ltd. Opticians and instrument makers, London.
James Henry Steward (1817–1896) established J.H. Steward in London in 1852. In the middle of the 19th century the business was appointed as the optician to Her Majesty's British & Foreign Governments. J.H Steward became incorporated as J.H. Steward Limited on 1st February 1913
This is an exceptional late 19th or early 20th century brass terrestrial refracting telescope, signed on the eyepiece ring, “J. H. Steward Ltd. 406 Strand, London. The telescope measures 47 3/4” when fully extended. Main tube length is 38”. Full extension of the telescope is 51 ½”.
The main lens diameter is 3” diameter. The front lens element is recessed 1 3/4” into the tube to act as a shield.
The front optic has some haze and scratching typical for its age. The optics are uncoated. Front element has chipping along its edge (see photo), which is not noticeable at all when looking through the telescope. The instrument is finished in a later re-lacquered brass, although the lens tube extension retains its original lacquer finish with typical age wear showing the marks from the hot-lacquering process that was used to cover brass in the 1800s and very early 1900s. The main tube is solidly intact noting some dings and dents that should be apparent in the photographs.
The wood tripod is 36” long when folded up and closed. Each leg can be extended another 32” so the telescope height can be adjusted to operate comfortably by a sitting or standing person. The wood tripod may have had an early repair but is solidly intact and sturdy.
The hardwood box has hand-dovetailed joints and is partially covered with green felt inside. Box measures 40 1/4” long, 8 1/2” tall, and 9 1/2” wide. The telescope together with its box weigh over 50lb, so shipping will be a costly factor. The telescope and accessories are a tight fit in the box. I suspect that someone in the past redid the interior compartments.
The telescope is in working order. See the photographs for cosmetic condition of the body. Please refer to the photos for the cosmetic condition.
This instrument not only makes a very prominent decorator piece, but is a rare, practical, and usable telescope from a very reputable manufacturer of instruments.
Bidders with zero feedback require prior approval before bidding.
Payment must be received within three days or item will be relisted.
NO RESERVE