2 x 2 inch 60° prism on stand
Date1850-1900
Inventory Number1997-1-1695
ClassificationPrism
Subject
Maker
American
Cultural Region
Dimensions11 × 16 × 10 cm (4 5/16 × 6 5/16 × 3 15/16 in.)
Material
DescriptionThe 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.
Alvan Clark and Sons
Date: 1860-1870
Accessories: square wooden case with velvet cushioning
Object number: 1996-1-0029
Alvan Clark and Sons
Date: 1860-1870
Accessories: square wooden case with velvet cushioning
Object number: 1996-1-0029a
Louis Jules Duboscq
Date: circa 1875
Object number: 1997-1-1559
Louis Jules Duboscq
Date: circa 1875
Object number: 1997-1-1802
