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Illustration of the principle of the camera obscura, 1671
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Illustration of the principle of the camera obscura, 1671
Illustration of the principle of the camera obscura, 1671. Showing how the image of the lighted face on the left appears inverted on the wall of the darkened chamber on the right. From Ars Magna by Athanasius Kircher. (Amsterdam, 1671)
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Media ID 14864117
© Oxford Science Archive / Heritage-Images
Athanasius Athanasius Kircher Athanasius Kirchner Camera Obscura Inverted Kircher Kirchner Athanasius Oxford Science Archive Projection
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print, titled "Illustration of the principle of the camera obscura, 1671" takes us back to the fascinating world of 17th-century technology. Created by Athanasius Kircher and unknown artist, this monochrome image showcases the concept of camera obscura in a simple yet mesmerizing manner. In this illustration, we witness an intriguing experiment where a lighted face on the left side appears inverted on the wall of a darkened chamber on the right. The camera obscura, a precursor to modern photography, was widely used during that era for its ability to project images onto surfaces through a small hole or lens. The stark contrast between light and darkness adds an air of mystery to this century-old technique. As we delve into this piece from Oxford Science Archive's collection, we are reminded of how early pioneers like Athanasius Kircher paved the way for advancements in visual technology. With its timeless appeal and historical significance, this print serves as both an educational tool and a testament to human curiosity. It invites us to appreciate how far we have come in terms of capturing images but also encourages us to acknowledge our roots in these ingenious inventions. As we gaze upon this thought-provoking artwork by Athanasius Kircher and his anonymous collaborator, let us celebrate their contributions while marveling at their ingenuity that continues to inspire generations even today.
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