Lanterna Magica

Magic Lantern was the earliest popular apparatus for the projection of images used worldwide. This project is the first systematic and comprehensive study of the relationship between tangible and intangible facets of the art of painting glass slides for projection by magic lanterns. This project will link the analysis of documented methods and materials used to produce hand-painted glass slides, the material characterisation of slides from the 18th and 19th century and the recronstruction of historical recipes in the laboratory. It will uncover the main degradation factors and the mechanisms possibly enhanced during projection towards the development of sustainable conservation methodologies.This study will extend beyond the material, establishing a common vocabulary for the community and disclosing the history of use and topics covered by the magic lantern, particularly in Portugal. 

With an interdisciplinary team of conservation scientists, conservators, curators, media archaeologists and artists, it will directly impact on the preservation, interpretation, and appreciation of this precious heritage.

______

Survey: Conservation of Magic Lantern hand-painted glass slides

If you are/was responsible for a private or public collection of Magic Lantern slides we kindly ask you to participate in this survey, that should take you less than 15 min.

Magic Lantern, Cinemateca Portuguesa - Museu do Cinema, Lisbon. © Teresa Parreira