free peep shows or peepshow is an exhibition of pictures or objects viewed
through a small hole or magnifying glass,
the latter free peep shows has eventually
become the most common usage of the
term since the advent of cinema and
television, which largely replaced the
various kinds of entertainment provided by
wandering showmen.
free peep shows also known as peep box or raree show trace back to ancient
times and are known in various cultures. It could be a wooden box with a
hole or several holes. It contained a set of pictures which the show man can
set into a viewing position by pulling the corresponding string.
The boxes could be decorated inside to resemble a theatrical scene.
The show was accompanied by talk show that explained what was happening
in the show. Common subjects included exotic views and animals, scenes
of classical drama or masques, lewd pictures.
free peep shows shows were precursors of toy theatres, with movable scenes
and paper figurines, popular in the 19th century,
children toy and scientific
curiosity, usually consisting of a box with an eyehole, through which the viewer
sees a miniature scene or stage setting, painted or constructed in perspective.
free peep shows of an earlier time are often the only accurate representation
of the stage design and scenery of the period
The earliest known peep shows
are the perspective views said to have been painted in transparent colours on
glass and lighted from behind for various effects, from sunshine to moonlight,
by Leon Battista Alberti in 1437.
Later models have designs that are apparently patterned on renaissance court
masques, such as that of the discovery of Diana by Actaeon, with fully
modelled figures set against a background painted in careful perspective.
In the 17th century, peep shows in their cabinets were often exhibited in the
streets by itinerant showmen, and the device became a popular children toy.
Some, equipped with movable scenery and wooden or cardboard figures,
developed into the juvenile theatres of the 19th century.
The peep show was also the precursor of many types of optical toys, including
the stereoscope and the magic lantern.
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