Claude lorrain filters, mid 19th century

Pocket set of claude lorrain filters, probably manufactured in great britain in the mid-19th century. The set comprises six colored glass filters (green, light- and dark braun, purple, dark orange, burgundy), each about 2.5 cm in diameter and framed on arms of horn, each of which in turn can be pivoted fan-like from out of a small horn case. The filters are flat and thin and do not distort the form of objects viewed through them. According to a contemporary account, they were useful “for producing a great variety of colors and showing their combination; it also will be found both pleasing and useful for viewing eclipses, clouds, landscapes, &c.” (benjamin pike. Illustrated descriptive catalogue of optical, mathematical, and philosophical instruments. New york, 1856). In mint condition and length is 8 cm.