camera obscura in the shape of a large book
Date: circa 1765
Inventory Number: 0010
Classification: Camera Obscura
Attributed to: Benjamin Martin (1704 - 1782)
Cultural Region:
Place of Origin:
Dimensions:
book closed: 14 x 62.2 x 45.7 cm (5 1/2 x 24 1/2 x 18 in.)
Bibliography:
The Apparatus of Science at Harvard, 1765-1800
Description:
Camera obscura contained in a case resembling a large folio book, of wood, covered with gilt decorated calf skin. When opened, the book folds out into an open-ended box draped with with a green felt curtain. Adjustable (modern replacement) mirror, convex lens, and bellows extend from the top.
Signedunsigned
Inscribedon the spine, in gold tooling: CAMERA OBSCURA
FunctionLike all camera obscuras it was used to reduce a landscape view or to trace the outlines of a small object. The subject was reflected from the surface of the mirror through the lens and onto a piece of paper placed on the bottom of the box. There the operator, his head inside the darkened box like an old fashioned photographer, made his sketch or tracing.
Historical AttributesThis instrument is described in a Harvard College invoice dated August 17, 1765 as a "large book Camera Obscura," obtained from B. Martin at a cost of £3.13.6.
Published ReferencesDavid P. Wheatland, The Apparatus of Science at Harvard, 1765-1800 (Cambridge: Harvard University Press, 1968), 127.