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Unknown Field Camera 4

Date Introduced: - ; Years Manufactured: c. 1890
Construction: back focus via push-pull; single swing; reversing by two tripod mounts; one piece solid mahogany  lensboard
Materials: mahogany body; cherry base; black fabric bellows; brass hardware
Sizes Offered: 5x8 (illustrated);
Notes: This camera is mostly well made using jigs and box-dovetails- usually a sign of professional production.  The front is mitered, which is an unusual production detail.  The back, where the dark slide is inserted into a slot, is most unusual, but functional.  Most of the hardware appears production, also, except for the top lensboard retainer, which is amateurish.  It came in a canvas case typical of the era.  The plate-holders are made by the Blair Camera Co.  Conclusion: it could be either a rare manufacturer or the work of a talented amateur.
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