Multi-Estate Fall 2025 Auction
Lot 94:
Description
Item SKU: C-11036
This piece, according to patent information, was designed by Alvah C. Roebuck (of Sears & Roebuck) in 1904 for his optical and projection technology manufacturing company. It was used in conjunction with a calcium light apparatus (more commonly known as "limelight") attached to a film projection device, in most cases, a stereopticon. This large piece of machinery was instrumental in controlling the amount of gas allowed into the light apparatus at any given time. The closed lower cylinder holds a solid material, typically sodium dioxide, which is used to generate gas with the introduction of water that would be held in the upper chamber. The resulting gas is stored and fed through the small, metal chamber off the side of the central tube and the gas flow is then controlled by way of a valve on top of this vessel; this is a very simplistic explanation of its operation.
This piece has not been tested and exhibits minor tarnish and rust.
9" dia and 49.5" H
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