Wide-Angle Zograscope

Werner Nekes Collection, Theatre Studies, University of Cologne^[1] #WN-224

Western Europe c.1780

Dimensions: H= cm, W= cm, D= cm

Lens: ⌀=16.7 cm, ƒ=51 cm

 

Figure WN-224.1 –Zograscope
Photo © Rod Bantjes.

Figure WN-224.2 –Oversized Mirror
Photo © Rod Bantjes.

This is a biconvex-lens viewer for enhancing the 3D-effect of copper-plate engravings known as vues d'optique.

 

It is an example of an "optical machine." Zograscopes are distinguished from other diagonal-mirror viewers in the Optical Machine Taxonomy by the fact that they have no enclosing box or image-holder and so rely on a surface such as a table to support the image.

 

This zograscope is distinguished from other species in the genus zograscope by the extra-wide mirror. It is possible that the wide mirror is meant to better capture the full breadth of vues d'optique which are typically wide-angle views. The dimensions of the unusual mirror are:

 

The mirror assembly is cantilevered so that it balances nicely in its open position. Like most zograscopes it folds up and the lens/mirror assembly can be removed for storage and transport.

 

In all other respects it is typical of zograscope design and detailing. The distance between the lens/mirror and the print (which lies flat on the table) can be adjusted to suit the users eyes and the print size. That adjustment is made by means of a sliding column secured with a wooded thumbscrew. The column has numerous dent marks indicating that users set it at a wide range of positions, similar to EXBD-69024.

 

For more about zograscopes and their uses and meanings, follow this link.

The Effect of the Oversized Mirror

Figure WN-224.3 – View through the Lens
Video © Rod Bantjes.

The extra width of the mirror may make it possible to see the full print with minimal head movement side-to-side. This effect would have to be more systematically compared to a conventional zograscope mirror.

 

Note the intrusion of a large area of background "noise" (the apparently moving bookcase). Other optical machines, including the lowly Raree Show, masked out such distractions and were thought for this reason to create a superior immersive illusion.