Name/Title
Underwood and Underwood StereoscopeEntry/Object ID
2009.4.1-2Description
One stereoscope, brown wood. Stamp on top Warranted Underwood and Underwood Trademark New York. Metal fastener allow for handle to fold down. This item was donated along with a box of stereoscope cards accessioned as 2009.4.2a-k.Context
In 1838 a British scientist discovered that he could make three-dimensional images. First he created two images, each taken from slightly different perspectives, then he arranged them side by side, tricking the brain and causing an optical illusion. A decade later the stereoscope, a device used to hold the printed “views,” was produced for at home use. The stereoscope exploded in popularity! By 1856 the London Stereoscopic Company had 10,000 different views in its catalog, and within six years they had one million. The popularity of stereo images faded after 1910 but never vanished; 3-D movies, the “View-Master” children’s toy in the ’60s and most recently VR, are also examples of this object’s legacy!Lexicon
Nomenclature 4.0
Nomenclature Primary Object Term
StereoscopeNomenclature Sub-Class
Visual Communication DevicesNomenclature Class
Visual Communication T&ENomenclature Category
Category 06: Tools & Equipment for CommunicationDimensions
Height
7 cmWidth
18 cmLength
33 in
