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Magic lantern display, 19th century
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Magic lantern display, 19th century
Magic lantern display, showing the 7 June 1891 eruption of the volcano Vesuvius in the Bay of Naples, Italy. The magic lantern was the ancestor of the modern slide projector. It was invented in China in the 2nd century, and was in existence in Europe by the late 17th century. It used an oil lamp and a lens to project images painted on glass plates onto a screen. Here, a method of adding motion to the image is being illustrated, with the effect design to imitate the lava and ash erupting from the volcano. Artwork from the eighth volume (second period of 1891) of the French popular science weekly La Science Illustree
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6360777
© SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1891 Annual Volume Demonstrate Demonstrating Demonstration Demonstrator Display Eruption French Hand Italian La Science Illustree Lava Lecturer Louis Figuier Magazine Popular Science Projecting Projection Projector Slide Teacher Vesuvius Visual Volcano Weekly Magic Lantern Mono Chrome Slide Projector
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This print showcases a mesmerizing magic lantern display from the 19th century. The image depicts the dramatic eruption of the renowned volcano Vesuvius in the Bay of Naples, Italy, on 7 June 1891. The magic lantern, an ancestor of today's slide projector, was ingeniously invented in China during the 2nd century and later made its way to Europe by the late 17th century. Operating with an oil lamp and lens mechanism, this remarkable device projected intricately painted glass plates onto a screen. In this particular illustration featured in La Science Illustree, motion is cleverly added to simulate flowing lava and billowing ash emerging from Vesuvius. This technological marvel captivated audiences as it brought historical events to life through visual storytelling. The photo captures a moment where an expert lecturer or demonstrator skillfully showcases this innovative projection technique to an attentive audience. The monochrome artwork evokes a sense of awe and wonder at both human ingenuity and natural phenomena. This snapshot not only offers us a glimpse into history but also highlights how scientific knowledge was disseminated through popular science magazines like La Science Illustree. It serves as a testament to our continuous quest for understanding and appreciation of technology throughout time.
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