stereoscope
Date: 1950-1960
Inventory Number: 2003-1-0144
Classification: Stereoscope
Subject:
Maker: Advertising Displays, Inc.
Cultural Region:
Place of Origin:
Dimensions:
stereoscope: 10.6 × 17.2 × 11.6 cm (4 3/16 × 6 3/4 × 4 9/16 in.)
case: 3.5 × 18.4 × 11.8 cm (1 3/8 × 7 1/4 × 4 5/8 in.)
Accessories: screw driver; carrying case
Description:
This stereoscope is supported by a metallic frame. On one side is the adjustable eyepiece that corresponds to the width of the viewer's eyes. On the other side are two pieces of glass, framed. One can also move sideways with the help of a micrometric screw. It has two horizontal scales to make measurements. The device folds sideways so it can be stored in a case. It was put on top of stereoscopic images, most likely aerial views.
Signedon instrument: Austin / PHOTO INTERPRET-O-METER / MFD. BY ADVERTISING DISPLAYS, INC. / COVINGTON, K.Y., USA, PATENT PENDING
(slightly different on case)
(slightly different on case)
FunctionThis instrument was used primarily for photogrammetry, i.e. the science or art of obtaining reliable measurements by means of photographs. Stereoscopic photographs of aerial views would be put side by side in front of the viewer. These would be seen through the adjustable eyepiece and would become one 3D representation of the photographed terrain relief. Measurement on that terrain can thereafter be made using the scale and micrometric screw.
Curatorial RemarksThe name "Austin" comes from the inventor of this type of stereoscope, Charles D. Austin. An original patent granted in 1942 is most likely the source of this more recent model.
The original patent can be viewed online here.
The original patent can be viewed online here.