Arthur Chevalier Mégascope Lens

this previously unknown telescopic projection-lens is illustrated and listed in the 1840 catalogue “Instruments pour la Photographie” by Arthur Chevalier of Paris, the lens was especially constructed for an enlarging device called Mégascope. In his catalogue Chevalier states that it is an apparatus to make portraits and microscopic views alike and highlights that it is also suitable for magnifying jewellery. The illustration on the next side indicates that the lens could be used in a camera obscura as well. The lens is composed of five cylindrical segments which expand to tube with a total length of 50cm. It is in good original condition (lens on rear element with 1cm crack), engraved on the first segment: ARTHUR-CHEVALIER Opticien Fils et Tuc de Charles-Chevalier Palais-Royal 158 Paris BREVETÈ S.G.D.G. A copy of the 1840 catalogue is included.