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General Kaleidoscope Information
Who invented the kaleidoscope? While kaleidoscopic images have been a fascination for centuries, it's generally accepted that the invention of the kaleidoscope, and it's first patent, belongs to Sir David Brewster (1781-1868). Brewster authorized several manufacturers of his scopes (Ruthven, Carpenter, Bancks) during his lifetime, but realized very little monetary gain from his invention. More information about Sir David Brewster can be found here. Top
The two most common mirror configurations are the 2-mirror and 3-mirror systems. A 4-mirror system is also used, but less frequently. Top
One mirror ;-). In a 2-mirror system, two mirrors are joined at a triangular vertex. The remaining side of the triangle is constructed of a non-reflecting material, usually black. This configuration creates a circular central image known as a mandala. In a 3-mirror system, the third side of the mirror triangle is an actual mirror. This configuration creates a continously reflecting pattern. Top
A polyangular kaleidoscope is a kaleidoscope that allows the viewer to change the angle of the mirror assembly. This in turn changes the number of points of symmetry of the interior image. Top
A polarized object cell is a cell containing polarized lenses which filter out light rays that would normally pass through and illuminate glass pieces commonly used in kaleidoscopes. This creates a dark background for the image because the light has been filtered out by the cross polarization of the lenses. However, when bi-refringent material is placed between the lenses, the light is bent (refracted) and therefore since the light rays are at a new angle to the lens, they can pass through and are seen as varied colors depending on the thickness of the bi-refringent material and the angle of the light ray. The range of colors is caused by the light rays bending at various angles. Top A dry cell is an object cell containing objects only, with no liquid acting as a suspension. When turned, the objects fall with a distinctive "clink" as they rotate. An example of a dry cell is seen in the Brewster and Bush kaleidoscopes. Top A liquid-filled cell is an object cell which contains a liquid, usually mineral oil, glycerin, or silicone, which keeps the objects in suspension. This allows the objects to remain in motion even after the cell is no longer being turned. It creates a slowly changing interior image due to the viscosity of the liquid. Top
The symmetry of a kaleidoscope image is a measure of how accurately the original interior image is reflected around the kaleidoscope interior. In a well-made mirror system, there is a seamless continuity of the image sections, with the images matching up perfectly along the edge of each pie-shaped piece. Top
The number of points of symmetry is determined by the angle between the 2 mirrors. The smaller the angle, the more points of symmetry. For example, mirrors having an interior angle of 30o would have 12-fold symmetry or a 6-point star. Top
A tapered mirror system is one in which the mirrors at one end of the scope are wider than at the other end. When used in a 3-mirror system, the image produced is a sphere. Top
The largest kaleidoscope in the world is located in Catskill Corners in upstate New York. More information can be found here. Top
Some of the smallest scopes ever created can be found in a special miniaturized replica of Cozy Baker's house/museum designed and built by stained glass artist Carl Goeller. Many kaleidoscope artists produced working miniature models of their original pieces for this work. In addition, several artists produce necklace kaleidoscopes, and even scopes that are worn on a ring. Top
While not absolutely definitive, one of the most expensive kaleidoscopes is the piece by W. Leigh Newton. It was sold by the London auction house Christie's in 2000 for £45,000, a bit over $75,000 US. The description of the scope as described by the London auction house Sotheby's in 1987 is as follows:
Back-lit object cells have a transparent or translucent back side to them, allowing light to enter then from the back. The best way to view these scopes is to point the scope directly at a light source. A side-lit object cell typically has an opaque back side, and must receive its lighting through the side of the cell. To view this type of scope, you must direct the light source from the side of the scope. Usually this type of scope has a black background in its image. Top
One of the best ways is to join the Brewster Kaleidoscope Society. Here you'll meet kaleidoscope enthusiasts from all over the world who are more than willing to share their passion for scopes with anyone interested. Also, many retailers have web sites accessible over the Internet which provide information on kaleidoscopes for sale, in addition to general kaleidoscope information. In addition, there are several Internet list groups focused on kaleidoscopes. Top A wand kaleidoscope is a scope in which the object cell is actually a liquid-filled wand which looks like a test tube. The wand is filled with various objects which float by as the scope is rotated. Top
A parlor kaleidoscope is distinguished from a hand_held kaleidoscope by its having a stationary base on which it sits. This allows the viewer to look through the scope and turn the object cell without having to actually hold the scope. Top A teleidoscope is a kaleidoscope with no object cell. The image in the scope is whatever the scope is pointed at at the time. In effect, whatever the kaleidoscope is pointing at becomes the object cell. Top
A Brewster kaleidoscope is one of various kaleidoscopes made with the authorization of Sir David Brewster, the inventor of the kaleidoscope. Various manufacturers include Ruthven, Carpenter, and Bancks. These scopes are very rare and command a high price if one can be found. More information can be found here. Top A Bush kaleidoscope is a scope manufactured by Charles Bush in the 1870's. These scopes are parlor scopes, covered in textured cardboard, a brass end object cell with ship's spokes, and a 2-mirror system. The scopes were produced having several different bases including a pedestal base, a 4-legged based, and a rarer 3-legged base. The object cell includes many interesting pieces, including liquid filled ampules, drawn glass rods, and sometimes a swan. The brass object cell is stamped with the location and date of Bush's patent, either Providence, Ri or Claremont, NH. More information can be found here. Top
To see the most symmetric image, it's often best to view the interior while sighting down the line where the 2 mirrors are joining, i.e. along the apex of the mirror triangle. Top
There are many uses of the kaleidoscope in addition to being merely a relaxing stimulus for the eye. Click here to read about some additional uses. Top
Kaleidoscope Materials What is dichroic glass and why is it used? Dichroic glass is glass which shows different colors depending on the angle of light falling on it. Dichroic glass is created by a vacuum process that deposits multiple layers of metals onto the surface of the glass. The glass manipulates light by transmitting one color through the glass while a second color is reflected from the surface; hence the name dichroic. Dichroic glass lends excitement to the objects in a kaleidoscope image, being very bright and reflective. Top
Millefiori is an Italian word meaning "thousand flowers." Although the process was developed much earlier in Egypt, it is now most identified with a glass making technique in Venice where hot layers of hot glass were laid over-around each other to create an image, then stretched into long rods (the image might be flowerlike, concentric circles, etc.). These rods were then cut into one-foot lengths called millefiori rods. From these one-foot lengths, very short lengths were cut and laid next to each other in a contained shape or around a bead base, for example, and then remelted together to create a finished item called a "murrina" (after Murano, an island in the city of Venice). Additional information can be found here. Top Lampworking is the process of melting glass over a flame or torch and then manipulating the glass to produce a desired object. A History of Lampworking. Top
Liquid filled ampules are sealed glass tubes containing liquid which are used as objects in an object cell. One of the earliest examples of their use is found in the scopes of Charles Bush. These ampules were manufactured in the late 1800's and are still largely leak-free today. Bringing the art of liquid filled ampules to an even higher level was accomplished by Bill O'Connor in the mid 1980's. His ampules are the benchmark of this intricate artform. Other contemporary artists who make liquid-filled ampules are Marc Tickle and Ben Straub. Top Found objects are ordinary items which are used as art objects. Gears, wheels, wire, pipe, etc. are examples. Artists making kaleidoscopes from found objects include Peter and Skeeter DeMattia and David Kalish. Top Slumped glass refers to glass that is heated kiln so that it takes on a new shape. It is also referred to as forming or sagging. Slumping and sagging are often used interchangeably, but when there is a differentiation it is that sagging refers to a piece of glass supported at its edges, so when it's heated, the center sags down to conform to the mold. Slumping refers to the opposite situation, where the glass is supported in the middle, and the edges slump down to conform to the mold. The biggest difference between these two styles of forming glass is that in sagging, the glass is supported around the entire periphery of the mold, so thins out as it stretches to conform to the mold. Top
A front surface (or first surface) mirror is usually defined as a mirror having the metallic reflective coating on the front side. Ordinary mirrors, including automotive mirrors and common bathroom mirrors, have the reflective coating on the back surface - we look through the glass at a reflection coming off the back side. The advantage to front surface mirrors is that you eliminate the possibility of seeing a somewhat confusing double image of two reflections: the reflection from the front surface of the glass and the more prominent reflection from the silvering on the back of the mirror. Top Layers of glass are cut; the edges are diamond ground, then stacked in a kiln. The kiln is heated to approximately 1500 degrees. The temperature varies greatly depending on many variables including the type of process, the type of glass and the thickness of the entire piece. When this "process" temperature is reached the glass is baked, or "soaked". This soaking process causes the glass to attain a liquid state. As a result, the layers bond, or "fuse" and become a solid piece. Additional surface treatments or decorations may be added to the glass, and once again the glass is heated. This time the process temperature and soak time are dictated by the specific applications. If the glass is to be slumped into a form, such as a bowl, the fused glass is placed on top of a mold and once again heated. It remains at the process temperature until the glass has softened and assumed the shape of the mold. During each process, the glass must be slowly cooled to room temperature. An annealing process is used which ensures that the finished piece will be free of any induced stress which could crack, or even worse, shatter the glass. The annealing process, depending on the size and thickness of the glass, can take from several hours to several days. (Source: TimberWolf Studios) Top
Simply, reverse painted glass is glass that has been painted on its inside surface, rather than its outside surface. This technique allows the colors to show through from the back side of the glass, giving them added depth, while the outside is enabled to be handled without wear or damage. Marc and Susan Tickle are well known for their use of reverse painted glass on their kaleidoscope exteriors. As Marc explains: "The reverse painting technique is achieved using home made paint, made from mica powder. The exact explaination is rather long winded, but the process is relatively simple. We use clear glass, then after thoroughly cleaning the surface we use paint brushes to apply the effect as desired. The painting is all done by Susan, and she has several styles that she uses, as well as developing newer ones all the time. Some of her painting effects are two and three step processes. Drying time between coats, and various other factors all have an effect on the final outcome. Finally the paint is coated with a black paint to bring out the actual colour of the mica designs. The black paint also serves as a protective coating." Top
Many of the more unusual materials used in constructing kaleidoscopes are in the form of found objects. Gears, bottles, eggs, even a clarinet have been used. A particularly unusual kaleidoscope was created by artist Bill Johnson and named Marquis de Sadescope. It's exterior is wood with rosebush thorns. Top
Collecting Kaleidoscopes Why are kaleidoscopes so expensive? This question is usually posed by people accustomed to perceiving kaleidoscopes as the simple toy they had as children. These toy scopes had poor mirrors, bits of plastic as objects, and mass produced paper graphics on their exteriors. The art of kaleidoscope making has grown by leaps and bounds since the 1980's. The sophistication of exterior materials and mirror configurations has placed the kaleidoscope into its own true art form. As the complexity and artistry of the scopes has increased, so has their accompanying price. The level of workmanship and artistic ingenuity required to produce a first-class kaleidoscope is extremely high, hence the high price many scopes demand. If you're still in doubt, try making one yourself! Top
A limited edition kaleidoscope is produced in a limited quantity, often 10 or 25. The artists produces only that many of a given design, regardless of collector demand. In contrast, a production scope is made in much larger quantities. Typically a production scope is significantly less expensive than a limited edition. However, that is not to say that a production kaleidoscope necessarily is of inferior quality. There are many examples of production scopes of extremely high quality. Top
Almost all contemporary art kaleidoscopes use front surface mirror to provide the highest quality image. Top
In additional to keeping the eyepiece and object chamber glass clean, the scope exterior must be maintained appropriately. A good set of basic principles for the correct care of your kaleidoscopes can be found at www.kaleidoscopesusa.com/care.htm. Top
Several of the factors that determine the market value of a particular kaleidoscope include its condition, rarity, the reputation of the artist and complexity and purity of the interior image. Top
It depends. Generally, kaleidoscopes hold their value fairly well if they have been properly cared for. In addition to the factors mentioned in the previous question, the cyclic nature of general economic conditions can also play a role in determining a scope's value. As with anything else, the value of a kaleidoscope can be measured by what someone else is willing to pay for it. Top
In this age of the Internet, one popular way to sell second-hand kaleidoscopes is on eBay©. It reaches a wide audience, and allows you to inexpensively provide details and images of your scope online. There are several drawbacks to this method, namely the ability to easily answer complicated questions from a prospective buyer about the scope. Also, collectors can be reluctant to purchase a scope that they haven't actually peered through. Another way is to join the Brewster Kaleidoscope Society. As a member of the BKS, you can place a notice about your kaleidoscope on the Members Only page. Top
Many factors contribute to the value of a kaleidoscope, namely it's rarity and reputation in the kaleidoscope community, whether its design broke new ground at the time of its introduction, the execution of it manufacture, and the timelessness of its design. Top
The Brewster Kaleidoscope Society maintains a list of kaleidoscope retailers on the Kaleidoscope Galleries page. Top
One method is to remove any oxidation present with 0000 steel wool, and then polish using a stained glass finishing compound. Another way is after polishing with the steel wool, to coat with a layer of clear polyurethane. Top
There are as many answers to this question as there are collectors. For some collectors, it's the beauty of the kaleidoscopic image that comes before all else. For others, a beautiful exterior is the key element. However, most people are attracted to the symmetry and changeability of a kaleidoscopic image, and derive pleasure from seeing the assembly of order and beauty from the seemingly unrelated objects in the object cell. Top
This is a question best asked of your local insurance agent. However, keeping records of your kaleidoscope collection regarding the price paid, details and features about the scopes, and pictures of the scopes themselves are very important in the case of loss, theft, or damage. Top
One of the most important qualities to look for in a kaleidoscope retailer is their ability to provide you with information regarding any scopes you might be interested in, and to suggest scopes that you may not be aware of. Developing a relationship with a retailer can take some time, and the knowledge of scopes varies from retailer to retailer. If you currently do not have a favorite retailer, you can look at the Kaleidoscope Retailers page on the Brewster Kaleidoscope Society website to contact one that interests you. Top
Different collectors use different methods. Some display their scopes all in a single room in the house, while others scatter them throughout their home. Some have built special wall shelving on which to perch their scopes. After you begin collecting scopes, you come to realize that they take up a significant amount of room. Efficiently displaying them and keeping them dust free can be quite a challenge. One important note is that scopes should generally be kept away from direct sunlight. The light and heat can cause wooden scope exteriors to dry and crack, and can cause fading in certain objects, especially dried flowers. Top
Over time, collectors tend to develop a favorite type of scope, be it wood vs. stained glass, 2 mirror vs. 3 mirror, wheel scopes. A good starter set of kaleidoscopes would include an example of each of the major types of kaleidoscopes: dry cell, liquid cell, wheel, marble, teleidoscope. Top
eBay© is a good place to look for antique scopes, particularly Bush scopes. Developing a relationship with a retailer is also useful, as they may come across antique scopes from time to time. An Internet search can often turn up leads for antique kaleidoscopes as well. Top
Organizing your kaleidoscope collection can be useful in many ways. One is to provide information to your insurance company in the event of loss, theft, or damage. Second, having detailed information for each scope aids in determining its market value. Third, it helps to know what you have when you are looking at new scopes. There are several ways to organize your scope collection. Index cards with the pertinent data is an efficient (if low-tech) method of organization. This method is limiting in that its difficult to sort out scopes according to a certain attribute or price range. To do this, you would have to use computer software to organize your scopes. Many collectors use generalized spreadsheet software such as Microsoft Excel©. Also available is Kaleidotrak, software specifically designed to organize kaleidoscope collections. Top
Wait awhile, and call it a dry-cell scope ;-). Your best option is to contact the retailer who sold it to you and explain the situation. Most retailers will work with you to get it fixed (this assumes you didn't buy it on eBay©). If you don't remember the retailer, you can try to contact the artist directly; however, it's much better to work through a retailer if possible. Top
This is a similar question to the one above. Try to work with your retailer to get the problem resolved. Top
eBay© provides a source of both new and second-hand kaleidoscopes. There are a few dangers with buying not only scopes, but anything over eBay©. The main problem is the possibility of mis-representation of the scope for sale. Flaws may not be mentioned. The pedigree of the scope might be suspect as well (e.g. a Brewster scope with a Made in Taiwan marking). Many scopes are described as "antique" when in actuality the seller doesn't have a clue about the manufacture of the scope, and is merely guessing. However, these problems notwithstanding, you can get a good buy on eBay© if you do your homework ahead of time, and resist the temptation to bid too high. Top
A boxed set kaleidoscope is generally a kaleidoscope with several interchangeable object cells which all fits into a specially crafted box (Example). Top
One of the more popular lights is the Ott-lite. This light provides a full-spectrum light similar to natural sunlight. Some models have a convenient mechanism whereby raising the lamp hood turns on the lamp, lowering the hood turns the lamp off. Another option is a small portable halogen lamp, which provides extremely bright light with a relatively low wattage bulb. Top
There are several qualities to look for in judging a kaleidoscope image. The most obvious is the symmetry of the image. There should be no broken images along the lines where the mirrors reflect. Secondly, there is the cleanliness of the image. Are the mirrors chipped along their seam? Are the mirrors dust-free? Are the eyepiece and endpieces spotless? Also, is the choice of objects compatible with the scope itself, both in color and texture? Are there too few or too many object pieces? Too few create a sparse image, while too many generates an overly busy, crowded image. Top
Unfortunately, kaleidoscopes do not have the long history of other art forms such as painting and sculpture. As a result, most people still associate kaleidoscopes with the toy scopes of their youth, with their cardboard exteriors and poor mirrors. Most are astounded when shown even an entry-level production scope which uses front-surface mirror and lampworked object pieces. Many of the current limited edition kaleidoscopes being made can certainly be considered "real" pieces of art in every aspect. It's mostly a case of non-familiarity with kaleidoscopes, which organizations such as the Brewster Kaleidoscope Society and others strive to eliminate. Top
Making Kaleidoscopes What liquid is used in a liquid filled cell? Common liquids used for wet cells include glycerin and mineral oil. Many artists have switched from glycerin to silicone, due to glycerin's tendency to absorb moisture over time, which may cause eventual leakage problems in the cell. Top
A front diopter lens is a magnifying lens used as an eyepiece in a kaleidoscope. Its purpose is to make the image appear sharper, and its required strength is dependent upon the length of the kaleidoscope. Top
The best way is to get someone to show you how. There is no substitute for actually seeing and doing. There are several books listed on the BKS website Bibliography page which provide detailed instructions for making kaleidoscopes. Top
Most artists doing lampwork use a mixture of oxygen and propane. Some use just propane alone which produces a cooler flame. Some use MAPP gas, which is a mixture of methacetylene (CH3C2H) and propadiene (CH2CCH2) with traces of other gasses added as 'stabilizers'. MAPP gas produces a hotter flame than propane alone, but less than oxy-propane. Popular torch brands are the Hot Head (cheap, portable, uses MAPP gas) and the Minor burner (oxy-propane, industry-standard, but more expensive). Top
A "kit" kaleidoscope is a package sold which contains all of the materials necessary for creating a kaleidoscope, including the mirrors, eyepiece, exterior panels, etc. These kits are available from Delphi and Clarify, among others. Top
Kaleidoscope artists each have their own methods. Some foil and solder the edges, some use hot glue or silicone, some use masking tape. The main objective is to firmly hold the mirrors in a fixed position in a manner that will withstand jarring, bumping, dropping(!), etc. Top
Practice, practice, practice. Once again, there is no substitute for the experience gained by constant repetition. Several artists such as Don Doak and Randy Knapp have developed sophisticated cutting boards which aid in consistently straight cutting. However, other artists simply use a Morton© board and straightedge to cut their mirrors. You have to find the way that works best for you. Top
A common method is to use ultraviolet (UV) glue to seal the acrylic chamber top and bottom. Then the side of the chamber is tapped to accept the threads of a grub or set screw. The chamber is filled with liquid, and then the thread of the screw is coated with UV glued and screwed into the chamber, sealing in the liquid. Top
A "turned" kaleidoscope or object cell is one turned on a wood or machinist's lathe. Top
For a 2-mirror system, it's important to note that the closer to the apex where the two mirrors meet, the more accurate the reflected image. While earlier scopes had a round eyehole in the center of the scope end, many later scopes have incorporated a teardrop-shaped eyehole, which enables the viewer's eye to get closer to the "sweet spot", hence creating a more symmetric image. Top
As in the question regarding making kaleidoscopes, the best way is to learn from an artist already skilled in lampworking. There are many variables involved (flame heat, pulling techniques, annealing) and having someone to help you learn the basics is invaluable. Also, there are many books on the market dealing with lampworking. Top
There are several possibilities. One is to contact established retailers of kaleidoscopes and present your work to them. If you're just starting out, another way to test the waters is at local arts and crafts shows. This will give you an idea of whether your scopes are marketable, and can also help to determine their market value. Many sellers also choose eBay© as a way to sell their goods. Top
Several scope making suppliers include:
The Brewster Kaleidoscope Society When was the Brewster Kaleidoscope Society founded? The Brewster Kaleidoscope Society, then known as the Brewster Society, was founded in 1986 by Cozy Baker. Top
The Brewster Kaleidoscope Society conventions are held annually at various locations throughout the United States. Top
Lots of kaleidoscopic stuff! There are new scope unveilings, kaleidoscope classes, lampworking and scope design demonstrations, a giant kaleidoscope sales room, dinners, parties, and award banquets. Top
There are currently approximately 500 members in the Brewster Kaleidoscope Society. Top
It's easy. Click here for the application form. Top Comments or suggestions? "Webmaster" <webmaster_1 at kaleidoscopecollector dot com>. |
