Decorative specimens of wood sawn using an Endless bandsaw by J.L. Perin of Paris to demonstrate the intricate cutting facility of the saw.

JL Perin demonstrated their wood saw capable of very high precision work at the 1862 International Exhibition in London, where it was displayed in the French Machinery section. The machine was considered interesting enough to tbe the subject of a stereoscopic photograph produced by the London Stereoscopic Company.

The bandsaw was one of the main innovations in woodworking technology during the nineteenth century, introducing an element of mechanisation, an increase in possible size, working speed and output, and an opening up of new capabilities, particularly in terms of cutting complex designs for decorative purposes, use in furniture, etc.

Most followed a similar pattern: Two large guide wheels, mounted one above the other, with the saw-band stretched across both of them vertically, and passing through a (usually adjustable) bed to allow cutting either at 90 degrees to the band or at different angles. There would be a guide to keep the band from too much lateral movement (which would affect the accuracy of the cut), and a means of tensioning it.