Images(2)

Bunsen-type photometer

Datecirca 1892

Inventory NumberWJ0190

ClassificationPhotometer

Subject

Maker Max Kohl A. G. founded 1876

User William James 1842 - 1910

User Hugo Münsterberg 1863 - 1916

User Harvard Psychological Laboratory founded 1891

User Department of Psychology, Harvard University founded 1934

Cultural Region

Place of Origin

Dimensions8.2 × 13 × 20.7 cm (3 1/4 × 5 1/8 × 8 1/8 in.)

Material

Bibliography

Equipment of Class Rooms. Physical Apparatus for Mechanics, Wave Theory, Acoustics and Optics

DescriptionThis photometer is made of two parts: the pyramidal section that includes the eyepiece; and the rectangular section, opened on both sides, in which were once two inclined mirrors (missing) and a grease-spot screen (also missing) separating the box in two. One side of the box has a threaded hole for a rod to attach it to a stand. The stand is missing. A candle holder was fixed on that stand. The measured value was given in metric candles.

The photometer is devoid of optics. The number "32" has been handwritten on a small sticker.

Signedstencilled in gold letters: Max Kohl, Chemnitz

FunctionA photometer is an instrument used to measure the brightness, or intensity of an unknown light source.

ProvenanceFrom the Department of Psychology, William James Hall, Harvard University.

Historical AttributesThis photometer appears among the apparatus that the new Harvard Psychological Laboratory (established in 1891) took to the Columbian Exhibition in Chicago in 1893 as an example of equipment for the New Psychology. It is recorded in Hugo Munsterberg's description of the Lab in 1893 as item: 192. Photometer. After Bunsen and Toepler, by Kohl, Chemnitz. $12.