Name/TitleTray Stereoscope ‘Le Polyphote’
About this objectLe Polyphote is a compact multi-view tray stereoscope designed to work with slide trays for 25 slides each, notably compatible with the famous Taxiphote trays by Jules Richard. The device operates by turning a key-shaped knob: turning it counterclockwise lifts a glass slide into position in front of the lenses, while turning it clockwise returns the slide and advances the tray to the next one. A side button allows users to navigate directly to a specific slide, while a small fold-out mirror helps read the slide number on the tray. The stereoscope includes a storage base for an additional slide tray.
In-depth information on ‘Le Polyphote’ and Bize can be found on André Ruiter’s blog: Polyphote
Place MadeFrance
MakerBize, Lucien
Maker RoleManufacturer
Date Made1910–1915
Series TitlePolyphote
TechniqueMulti-view, tray-based
TechniqueFocus, lens board
Period1893–1939
Subject and Association DescriptionLucien Albert Bize was a pioneer in compact stereoscope innovation in early 20th-century France. In 1908, he introduced ‘Le Minimus’ and ‘Le Multiphote’, both featuring an ingenious simple mechanism. The more conventional ‘Le Polyphote’ was introduced in 1910. Bize’s stereoscopes were initially manufactured by Maison Gustave Jacob in Paris until Jacob’s bankruptcy in 1911. Production continued under Bize until he sold his company to Robert Pleyau in 1913. The manufacturing of Bize’s stereoscopes likely ceased during World War I.
Format45x107mm
Object TypeStereoscope
Medium and MaterialsGlass Slides
Object numberM‑ST054
Copyright LicenceAll rights reserved
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