Home > Arts > Artists > K > Athanasius Kircher
Magic lantern display, 17th century C016 / 8932
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Magic lantern display, 17th century C016 / 8932
Magic lantern display. 17th-century artwork showing an image of a skeleton being projected from a magic lantern. The magic lantern was the ancestor of the modern slide projector. It was invented in China in the second 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. 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
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 9246245
© SCIENCE, INDUSTRY AND BUSINESS LIBRARY/NEW YORK PUBLIC LIBRARY/ SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1600s 1646 17th Century Ars Magna Athanasius Kircher Device Display Displaying Early German Jesuit Optics Pioneering Project Projecting Projector 1671 Magic Lantern Magic Lanterns Physical Slide Projector
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> K
> Athanasius Kircher
> Arts
> Minimalist artwork
> Monochrome artwork
> Modern art
> Arts
> Minimalist artwork
> Monochrome artwork
> Monochrome paintings
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a mesmerizing magic lantern display from the 17th century. The artwork depicts an image of a skeleton being projected through this early form of technology, which served as the precursor to modern slide projectors. Originating in China during the second century, the magic lantern made its way to Europe by the late 17th century. It utilized an oil lamp and a lens to project intricately painted glass plates onto a screen. The illustration featured in this print is taken from Athanasius Kircher's renowned publication "Ars Magna Lucis et Umbrae" (The Great Art of Light and Darkness), first published in 1646. This pioneering work delved into optics and explored the fascinating world of magic lanterns. Kircher, a German Jesuit scholar, contributed significantly to our understanding of this early projection device. Stepping back in time with this historical snapshot, we gain insight into the technological advancements that shaped our present-day visual experiences. The magic lantern played a crucial role in projecting images for entertainment and educational purposes during its era. As we admire this monochrome artwork, let us appreciate how far we have come since these humble beginnings - from oil lamps and glass plates to high-definition projectors capable of displaying vibrant imagery with unparalleled clarity.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.
