____ Lane’s Telescopic View of the Great Exhibition. 1851. London; Published by C. Lane. 1851.

Landscape 8vo.(circa 18 x 16cm); publisher’s buff boards, pictorially engraved with original handcolouring to upper cover, extending to reveal a 10-sectional lithographed peepshow with circular viewing aperture with original neat handcolouring throughout, hinged with the original undyed calico cloth bellows, and extending to a total depth of 28 inches; externally dust-soiled and somewhat darkened, with small marking to lower cover, the accordion folds remarkably unrestored and without splitting or other wear, but with spotting; internally very good, bright and sound; without the original protective slipcase, as is often the case.

A delightful souvenir of the first major international showcase of industrial, cultural and artistic achievements drawn from all parts of the globe.  The event was a momentous success, attracting more than six million visitors between May and October 1851.  It was the brainchild of Prince Albert, Consort to Queen Victoria.

This accordion-folded optical toy depicts the scene surrounding the central transept of the Crystal Palace, constructed in Hyde Park London. Using the peephole on the cover, which simulates a lens, the viewer is treated to the spatial effect of gazing into the vast interior of the building, with its iconic additions including the massive fountain and the giant elm trees which were housed under the impressive glass roof.