Ernst Plank “Lanterna Magica” No. 402 German Tin Oil Lamp Magic Lantern Projector Wooden Carrying Case, Slides Box & Lighting Accessory for Sale

Ernst Plank “Lanterna Magica” No. 402 German Tin Oil Lamp Magic Lantern Projector Wooden Carrying Case, Slides Box & Lighting Accessory  

We have a special treat for those of you who enjoy the “magic” of a magic lantern. This is an antique tin oil lamp “Lanterna Magica” No. 402 magic lantern projector original wooden box, wooden slides box (no slides), and lighting accessory manufactured by Ernst Plank of Nuremberg, Germany.  

The box is in good condition as is the slides box. The carrying case box has the original product label on it. The lighting accessory lamp is missing the back lens piece, but still has the front glass. We aren’t exactly sure how this lighting accessory works. We would love to hear from anyone who has information on the No. 402 and how the lighting accessory works.   

Magic lanterns were invented in the 1600’s and were the earliest for of slide projector. These simple yet ingenious devices have a long and fascinating history. Many of the first magic lanterns were illuminated by candles, but as time went on and new technologies were invented, they began to be illuminated in other more powerful methods. By the 18th century the magic lantern became a common form of entertainment and education in Europe. The Magic Lantern Society tells us that, “The earliest known “lanthorn show” in the U. S. was in Salem, Massachusetts, on December 3, 1743, “for the Entertainment of the Curious.” But the source of light for lanterns in this period—usually oil lamps—was still weak, and as a consequence the audiences were small.”   

This piece is in good all original condition with no breaks, restorations, repairs, or touch ups. This piece shows the usual patina, fading, dust, chips, scuffs, surface rust, scratches, missing accessories and wear that are to be expected from age and display. We invite you to view the photos to further determine quality and condition. The lighting lamp accessory is approximately 6 ¼” L x 4 ¼” W x 12 ½” H, the carrying case is 12 ¼” L x 7 ¼” W x 10 ¼” H, and the slide box is 9 ½” L x 6 ¼” W x 2 ¾” H. This is a pretty impressive piece that would be a great addition to any collection. We encourage you to examine the photographs to get a better idea of condition and quality.   

A brief history of Ernst Plank of Nuremberg, Germany: 

1866 – early 1900s

Founder: Ernst Plank

Specialty: Tin trains, airplanes, boats, and automobiles.

Started in 1866 and named after its founder, the company initially built toy steam engines and magic lanterns at Hochfederstrasse 40 in Nuremberg. Ernst Plank was one of the first companies to produce toy steam engines and became famous for its copper and tin toys. The company manufactured stationary steam engines along with steam engines and track. Some railway carriages and accessories were produced alongside Märklin. The company suffered during the economic crisis in the 1920s, losing the majority of its market significance. Ernst Plank toy trains are highly collectible in part due to their rarity.