c.1939 Warner Bros., Looney Tunes Cartoon-O-Graph in Original Box
The principle of enlargement duplication was the basis behind this Looney Tunes "Cartoon-O-Graph" sketch board toy. Featuring a full color illustration of Bugs Bunny on the cover, the set is gigantic measuring nearly 2 ft. in length (see insert just below top photo). It's in excellent condition. The idea is "simple". Tracing a small drawing connected to a mechanical arm will create a large reproduction of the original. The assumption being that anyone can produce a "sketch" by this method. Actually it was a never ending source of kid frustration because there was never enough pressure for the pencil to leave a mark. However, today it works well as a beautiful antique toy and features some of the most famous U.S. cartoon characters ever created. It's important to note that few toys were produced during this early Looney Tunes period. The set includes a 1/8" thick laminated fiberboard work surface, a four piece chrome plated steel enlarging arm, seven cartoon illustrations for copying, eight blank pieces of 10" x 14" drawing paper, and an extremely ancient pencil. The drawing paper is held in place with two, two piece enclosed aluminum screws (so there's no point sticking out the back side). The small cartoon illustrations were stored inside some kind of magic envelope color trick with original directions. Tied to the pencil are two old brass luggage keys. Size: 15" x 21" x 1½". Sold: Dec. 2005
Price Sold: $ 35
