T.H. McAllister Chromatrope Magic Lantern Slide, 1860-1900

01

Artifact Overview

Magic lanterns use a concave mirror and light source to project images on glass slides with painted or photographic scenes. Developed in the 17th century, magic lanterns predate slide projectors and motion pictures. In the hands of magicians, they became "lanterns of fright," projecting wondrous images and apparitions. Slide themes ranged widely: exotic travel, folklore, advertising, history, science, and art.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Lantern slide

Date Made

1860-1900

Creator Notes

Made in Great Britain for T.H. McAllister of New York, New York.

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

2017.0.34.61

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Brass (Alloy)
Glass (Material)
Wood (Plant material)

Color

Multicolored

Dimensions

Height: 4 in
Width: 0.5 in
Length: 9.125 in

Inscriptions

on back of frame: MADE IN GREAT BRITAIN EXPRESSLY FOR / MCALLISTER MFG. OPTICIAN NEW YORK