Photographica Pages
An online guide to collectable cameras and related stuff
Anthony Patent Duplex (Stereo)
Novelette
Anthony 5x8/8x10 Patent Duplex Stereo Novelette, with single Darlot Wide Angle
Hemispherique lens in Prosch shutter
Since Scovill held the rights to the revolving back, Anthony employed a system that allowed the back of
the Novelette to be detached from the rear bed, and the entire back and bellows of the camera to be
turned from the horizontal to vertical position. In 1886, Anthony modified this system so that the front of
the bellows could be detached from the front standard as well, allowing the entire back and bellows unit
to be removed. They then designed two large format cameras that could be used with two sizes of
back and bellows units on each frame. The Patent Duplex Novelette was available as a 5x8 or 8x10 on
an 8x10 frame, or as an 8x10 or 11x14 on an 11x14 frame. This 8x10 frame is shown with the 5x8 back
unit mounted vertically, and equipped with a Prosch Duplex shutter. All Patent Duplex Novelettes had
round front pieces and wide lens boards for stereo use. The Patent Duplex versions of the Novelette
are rarely seen.
Text and photos courtesy of Milan Zahorcak.