Cool Finds: Stereoscope

Article shared from Pixologie

Journey with us back to the early 1900s, a time when the world was captivated by

the wonders of stereoscope viewers. Recently, our friends at Smart Moves, found

an interesting device and photos to go with it. They posted on Facebook, looking

for some answers as to what these items might be.

Their team let us provide some answers! The device is a stereoscope viewer.

What is a Stereoscope?

A stereoscope viewer is a fascinating device that allowed people in the early 1900s

to view images in mesmerizing 3D. It consisted of a handheld apparatus with a wire

slot where pairs of nearly identical photographs, known as stereographs, were

inserted. While stereograph, also known as a stereoscopic photograph, is a pair of

nearly identical images taken from slightly different perspectives.

When you looked through the viewer’s lenses, the two images merged, creating an

incredible illusion of depth and making the photographs appear as if they were

popping out in three dimensions.

Types of Stereographs

1.  View-Master Reels: Remember those red plastic viewers that

transported you to faraway lands with just a click of the lever? Well, those

were View-Master Reels. They contained two nearly identical images

side by side, creating a mesmerizing 3D effect.

2. Stereoscopic Cards: These beauties were all the rage in the Victorian era.

With a pair of stereoscopic glasses, people could view these cards and be

transported to another dimension. It was like Oculus Rift, but with a

touch of elegance and a hint of antiquity. Visit this link for more

collections of stereograph cards.

3. Anaglyph Images: These funky images require those stylish red and cyan

glasses. As you put on the glasses, the red filter would separate the left-

eye view from the right-eye view, creating a jaw-dropping 3D effect right

in front of your eyes.

Whether you’re enjoying View-Master reels, feeling nostalgic with stereoscopic

cards, or diving into the fun of anaglyph images, stereographs have something for

everyone, which makes them popular.

The 3D Effect in Stereoscope

The 3D effect in stereoscope viewers was achieved through the principle of

stereoscopy. Each stereograph contained two images, taken from slightly different

angles, simulating the way our eyes perceive depth. 

When viewed through the viewer’s lenses, these two images merged, creating the

illusion of three-dimensional depth perception. 

The team at Smart Moves found photos that were promoting a film or something

else. The wording under the right image appears to be the name of a production.

We are grateful that Smart Moves let us share these photos and help provide some

information as to where and what they might be!