Prism, Rainbow Water Prism, Original Green Paint and Plug

This example is nicer than most of what we have handled. Turned ends, one end retaining original carved plug for sealing pouring aperture. The vertices are beautifully molded as are inside corners which are painted red.

Prisms were used in the late 18th and early 19th centuries to conduct home experiments on light and color theories set forth by Sir Isaac Newton. Widespread fascination with science brought many innovations such as this into the home.

Date: Circa 1800

Measurement: Length: 12.75"; Width: 3"; Height: 3"

Material: Pine, glass, and paint

Condition: Two panes of glass appear to be old replacements, as expected trivial paint loss... else fine.

SOLD