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Kirchers disc viewer, 17th century
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Kirchers disc viewer, 17th century
Kirchers disc viewer. 17th-century artwork of the parastatic microscope constructed by German Jesuit scholar Athanasius Kircher (circa 1601-1680) for his museum in Rome. The scenes at right (from the Passion of Christ) were viewed through a lens and the glass disc rotated, similar to how a slide viewer operates. Artwork from the 1671 edition of Ars Magna Lucis et Umbrae (The Great Art of Light and Darkness) by the German Jesuit scholar Athanasius Kircher (circa 1601-1680). First published in 1646, it was mostly about optics and magic lanterns
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Media ID 9244407
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1600s 1646 17th Century Ars Magna Athanasius Kircher Biblical Book Christianity Device German Jesuit Jesus Object Optics Publication Religion Religious View Viewing 1671 Magic Lanterns Passion Of Christ Physical
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This print showcases Kircher's disc viewer, a remarkable 17th-century device created by German Jesuit scholar Athanasius Kircher. The artwork, taken from the 1671 edition of his book Ars Magna Lucis et Umbrae (The Great Art of Light and Darkness), depicts this parastatic microscope which was originally housed in Kircher's museum in Rome. The viewer operated similarly to a slide viewer, with scenes from the Passion of Christ viewed through a lens while the glass disc rotated. This ingenious technological marvel allowed people to engage with biblical illustrations in a physical and interactive manner during the 1600s. Kircher's publication, first released in 1646, delved into topics such as optics and magic lanterns. However, it is his groundbreaking invention that truly captures our attention here. The monochrome illustration beautifully portrays both the intricate design of the device and its historical significance. This image not only offers us a glimpse into an important chapter of European history but also highlights how technology has been used throughout time to enhance our understanding and appreciation of religious narratives. It serves as a testament to Kircher's ingenuity as well as his dedication to merging science and religion seamlessly within one innovative creation. Photograph courtesy: SCIENCE, INDUSTRY AND BUSINESS LIBRARY/NEW YORK PUBLIC LIBRARY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
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