The Stereoscope

A stereoscope is a device that creates the illusion of three-dimensional images by presenting two slightly different pictures, one to each eye. These images mimic how our eyes naturally see the world from different angles. When viewed through the stereoscope, the brain combines these two images into a single scene with depth, making flat pictures appear three-dimensional. It was popular in the 19th and early 20th centuries for viewing photographs and postcards, and laid the groundwork for modern 3D imaging and virtual reality technology.