The Camera Obscura

The fascinating illustrated history of the original camera, an optical viewing device once widely used but now almost forgotten. This chronicle of its long history is told through the writings of those who made or used the camera obscura for scientific or artistic purposes, and those authors who recorded its varied uses. It recalls how this versatile instrument was used for astronomical observations, as a sketching aid by travellers and amateur artists, and on a grander scale as an entertainment or tourist attraction.