Parlor Kinetoscope. Circa 1897. Early optical viewer, invented by Thomas Edison, with a thin paper film reel displaying a moving picture, crank handle affixed at side. Mahogany case. 11 ¾ x 11 ½ x 3 ½". One reel loaded in machine, supplied with four others (subjects include beach bathers, a clown, a dog, a woman dancing, and a boxing match; scattered tears and chipping to reels). Paper instructional slip affixed inside cabinet (slight losses). Light scratches to cabinet. A RARE example of this viewer patented in August 1897 by Edison and retailed by the American Parlor Kinetoscope Co., Washington, D.C.