This is the working replica of a praxinoscope, the precursor to the modern motion picture. The animation device was invented in 1877 by French science teacher Charles-Émile Reynaud to address distortion deficiencies of the similarly designed zoetrope. A dodecagonal drum—each face containing a mirror—sits concentrically inside a smooth, 8" diameter cylinder. A paper strip of 12 images is placed into the cylinder; when the brass finial is spun, the images are reflected in the central prism of mirrors, creating the illusion of movement. Includes 19 image strips, including a dancing ballerina and a rotund captain of industry rolling by virtue of his own girth. 8 3/4" H x 8" Diam. (2 1/2 lbs.)