The kaleidoscope

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About this book

The kaleidoscope covers the instrument's history, theory and construction, together with its application to the fine and useful arts. The construction instructions describe a brass ring that moves easily on the tube and is held in place by a brass shoulder on either side. The object box holds fragments of coloured glass between two glasses, with the inner glass transparent and the other ground on the outside.

The account of the ocular harpsichord describes an ordinary harpsichord arranged to display a related colour in a connected frame when a sound is produced by striking the keys. The construction account describes a brass rim generally made from two pieces that screw into each other, allowing the object plate to be opened and the fragments changed at pleasure.

About the author

David Brewster

Brewster invented the kaleidoscope in 1816 and made almost nothing from it, because the patent was drawn badly enough that copies were on sale across Britain before he could act.