2 x 2 inch 60° prism on stand
Date: 1850-1900
Inventory Number: 1997-1-1695
Classification: Prism
Subject:
Maker: American
Cultural Region:
Dimensions:
11 × 16 × 10 cm (4 5/16 × 6 5/16 × 3 15/16 in.)
Description:
The stand, which was probably meant for an optical bench, is made of a brass rod, a platform, and two tightening screws linked together by a bar. A piece of cork is used to prevent scratches on the prism when mounted. A small equilateral prism is mounted on the stand. The stand was made to accept prisms of various shapes and sizes. Its tarnish shows that it normally held a larger prism than what is there now.
The prism has two polished faces. Each polished surface is 5.3 cm (2 1/8 inches) in diameter.
The prism has two polished faces. Each polished surface is 5.3 cm (2 1/8 inches) in diameter.
Signedunsigned
FunctionPrisms are used to create a light spectrum, an artificial rainbow. Wikipedia offers a nice description, with images, of how it works. See the following website.