Magic lantern - Dissolving Views part 3

Dissolving views
(part 3)



Dissolving views, as the name implies, dissolve into each other. To achieve the changeover we usually need two lanterns, or a double- or triple-lantern, because there are at least two pictures to display; for example one slide depicting a landscape in summer, the other the same landscape in winter. This is a fine example of a dissolving effect that makes use of only one picture slide. It shows a mountain side from dusk to dawn. The changing view is caused by a coloured strip of glass that one has to slide in and out the wooden frame, thus colouring the clouds from a clear sky to blue to a deep pink. Considering that the picture glass is only 2.5 inches (almost 6.5 cm) in diameter, this piece is a striking example of miniature painting on glass. The frame measures 11 x 4.25 inches (24 x 11 cm).

These are a dissolving pair of slides for use in the Masonic fraternal organization. They are lovely in the colouring and the very Victorian sentiment. "He Cometh forth as a flower" is probably a Biblical reference, as is the "And is cut down.".

Dissolving views of the Greek myth of Pygmalion and Galatea. Galatea was the ivory creation of a brilliant artist named Pygmalion, who lived on Cyprus. He hated and abhorred women and promised himself that he would never get married. Perhaps in trying to create a perfect woman, Pygmalion sculpted a work of art. The statue he created looked very much alive and he perfected it each and every day until there was nothing left to perfect. The statue was beautiful and Pygmalion fell in love with it. He began to realize how lonely he was when his kisses and caresses where not returned from the inanimate object. Aphrodite, the goddess of love, was very much impressed by this original and devoted love and decided to make Pygmalion's wish come true. When Pygmalion returned to his home, he walked over to touch his statue and discovered that it was warm to the touch. So he kissed it, and its lips became soft. His creation was coming to life before his eyes! He joyfully thanked Aphrodite. She was present at their wedding, and Pygmalion and Galatea had two children, Paphus and Metharme. Framed in mahogany with a label: 'Dr. A. H. Gilson, Quincy, Mass AKA Dr. Gilson Up in Boston'. c. 1860-70. Size 7 x 4 x 3/8"; glass: 3" diameter.