History: The Hermagis  petzval lenses were known and well sold in the very early days of photography. For decades those lenses were used worldwide in the top portrait studios. The lens is engraved with:

'HERMAGIS  OPTn Fant - Brevete s.g.d.g. - Rue de Rambuteau, 18 - Paris'

This was indeed the first adress that Hermagis did register his workshop in 1855. Since he later moved on, and the engraving changed, it is safe to say that the lens is from the 1855-1858 period!

Since the lens predates the waterhouse era, it was equiped with washer style stops. Most such stops were lost in the decades that followed, but this lens miraculously still has two of the authentic stops included.

Condition: The lens comes in a fine and authentic condition. Though the golden laquere is mostly intact it shows quite some patina. I did ponder on refurbishing it, but decided that the condition is good enaugh to be well preserved. I cleaned the outer debris and left the authentic patina intact. In the end the lens is over 150years old, and was very likely one of the very early ULF lenses made for the wetplate proccess in the 1850ies.

The rack & pinion is still complete and works, though a bit tough at times. The glass is really super clear for its age. There are minimal cleaning marks and dust specs indeed, but overall its stunningly clear.

With its focal lenght of about 500mm and an image circle of about 500mm it will cover formats up to 11x14 and maybe 14x17 at portrait distance. 

The lens comes with a fitting flange, two washer stops, and the original brass lenscap!



height: 35cm
width: 12cm
weight: 4500gr

Insured and tracked shipping cost:

Germany - 20 eur
EU* - 60 eur
Worldwide - 150 eur

*(the site offers only 2 shipping variations, DE and worldwide. buyers from EU please either contact me beforehand for a reduced EU cost, or after buying so i can send a refund over the difference)

Importent Note: This item comes from my private collection and is around 100 years old (antique). I try my best to describe all the faults and major damage which are relevant for the function of this item. But the actuall item can show signs of wear and also some cosmetic blemishes/damage which is not described in the auction text! When buying this item the buyer agrees to this terms.