How does the Phenakistoscope work?
Persistence of motion is key for the Phenakistoscope to work. The illusion of motion was first theorised by the Greek mathematician Euclid and later by Newton. However, the true principle didn't become firmly conducted until 1829 by Joseph Plateau.
The Phenakistroscope works by a series of two discs being mounted on the same axis. The first disc featured slits around the edge, and the second consisted of images drawn with successive actions. These discs both spin in the same direction to create the illusion of movement when viewed in a mirror through the first disc's slots. The phenakistoscope can only be used by one person at a time, however.
The Invention in Society
In the 18th century, religion was central to the majority of people's lives. People married young and had many children, and the vast majority of women stayed at home while men worked; children were also considered to be a lot more well behaved.
Upon the invention and release of the Phenakistoscope in 1841, the toy was one of the most successful illusion toys out there.
How did the Phenakistoscope evolve?
Upon reaching market, it acuired other names: the Phantasmascope and the Fantoscope. For two years it was rather successful until WIlliam Horner invented the Zoetrope.
The 'Joseph Plateau Award' (a replica of the original phenakistoscope) is presented every year to a special guest of the 'Flanders Intentional Film Festival' to those whose achievements are noted as special and distinct in film making.
Persistence of motion is key for the Phenakistoscope to work. The illusion of motion was first theorised by the Greek mathematician Euclid and later by Newton. However, the true principle didn't become firmly conducted until 1829 by Joseph Plateau.
The Phenakistroscope works by a series of two discs being mounted on the same axis. The first disc featured slits around the edge, and the second consisted of images drawn with successive actions. These discs both spin in the same direction to create the illusion of movement when viewed in a mirror through the first disc's slots. The phenakistoscope can only be used by one person at a time, however.
The Invention in Society
In the 18th century, religion was central to the majority of people's lives. People married young and had many children, and the vast majority of women stayed at home while men worked; children were also considered to be a lot more well behaved.
Upon the invention and release of the Phenakistoscope in 1841, the toy was one of the most successful illusion toys out there.
How did the Phenakistoscope evolve?
Upon reaching market, it acuired other names: the Phantasmascope and the Fantoscope. For two years it was rather successful until WIlliam Horner invented the Zoetrope.
The 'Joseph Plateau Award' (a replica of the original phenakistoscope) is presented every year to a special guest of the 'Flanders Intentional Film Festival' to those whose achievements are noted as special and distinct in film making.