19th-Century French Maritime Telescope by Biette à Lyon

9th-Century French Maritime Telescope on Stand
Signed Biette à Lyon

This finely crafted 19th-century maritime telescope is executed in brass and mounted on its original adjustable stand. The telescope features a multi-draw barrel with a rich, naturally aged patina, reflecting both quality manufacture and prolonged use. It is supported by a turned brass column terminating in a stable tripod base, allowing for secure tabletop or deck-side observation.

The telescope is signed Biette à Lyon, identifying it as the work of a respected French optical instrument maker active in Lyon during the 19th century. Firms such as Biette were known for producing precision scientific and navigational instruments, including telescopes and barometers, for naval, merchant, and scientific use. The restrained design emphasizes function over ornament, characteristic of professional maritime instruments of the period.

Originally intended for navigation, coastal surveying, and long-distance observation aboard ship, the telescope remains an evocative object of maritime history. Today it serves equally well as a functional scientific artifact or as a striking decorative element for a library, study, or nautical interior.

Measurements:
38" L × 12" W × 21.5" H