Fisherview Stereoscope

United States, 1920s

The Fisherview stereoscope was created by Scientific Materials Company in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania — a company founded by Chester G. Fisher and still exists today as Fisher Scientific. Under the Fisherview name, the company also produced 72 glass stereoviews of World War I — 6 boxes of 12, all authorized by the French War Department. The promotional text in the Fisherview catalog states:

“In no other way is it possible for those who were not there to conceive of how the fields of action looked during the recent World’s War.”

It’s still a bit of a mystery as to why a company specializing in chemical equipment produced a stereoscope and war images. One theory is that it stemmed from a personal interest of Chester Fisher. On the former Great War in 3D site, you can read more about the Fisherview set and view descriptions of the glass stereoviews.

Primary Material: Wood (early) & Bakelite (later)
Media Format: 62mm x 126mm glass
Light Source: Natural light
Focus: Adjustable
Interocular: Fixed

Wooden Fisherview Stereoscope

We believe this is the first version of the Fisherview and while the construction is a bit rough and makeshift, we think the shape and coloring give the appearance a subtle, clean vibe that we find attractive. It came with a full set of 72 glass slides and a carrying case (sans handle).