This is a whole plate rated Ross Rapid Symmetrical. According to the Lens Vade Mecum, these were first introduced in 1874. The serial number on this one puts it slightly past 1875. Engravings read: Ross London, No 29213, 8 1/2 x 6 1/2, Rapid Symmetrical. Focal length is approx 12", cut for stops but none included. On an 8x10, it appears to me to light up the entire ground glass, so should definitely cover 8x10 if you stopped it down. Ross lenses are a delight to use.
The VM also says of these:
"Rapid Symmetrical: Lenses for portrait, views, interiors, copying. Possibly the most useful in existence" (p. 219) On p220, it says 'not very common, most being rather small lenses' (for 1/2 and 1/4 plate).
This one is in pretty good shape. The glass was very dirty when I found it. There might be a small nick in the front element (which you can switch to the rear if desired). I'm not positive - several things I thought were nicks turned out to be dirt after several cleanings, but I'll say it is, just to be safe.
No flange. 2 1/2" tall approx, about 2 3/4" diameter at the threads, weights just under 12oz. Cut for stops, none included.
Sold over on LFPF
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