Microphotographic images produced for Stanhope souvenir novelties can be found in a variety of styles, shapes
and subjects. The most popular were topographical views, and these were available for most late nineteenth
century tourist attractions, historical cities, spa towns and religious shrines in the United Kingdom, France
and other European countries, North America, the Middle East and even Australia.
Many microphotographs of royalty were produced, especially of Queen Victoria and her family. Pictures of the
French Imperial Family were not issued on Stanhopes after 1870. The last royal commemorative Stanhopes were made
in 1953, for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.
Stanhope images of national and international trade fairs exist from the 1862 London International Exhibition
to the 1939 New York World's Fair. They are prized by Stanhope collectors for the historical value of their
dates, but are also sought by those who specialise in "world fair" collectables.
The Stanhope image is only the size of a pinhead. To be able to read captions and distinguish individual details,
which are only minute fractions of this small area, demonstrates great skill by the original 19th century photographer.
Likewise any successful enlargement of images in Stanhope objects whether via a microscope, by other optical means or by
digital photography should be applauded.
"Stanhopes Magazine" is an entertaining and useful magazine for all those who find microphotography a fascinating and absorbing subject. It is a full colour magazine presenting interesting illustrated articles about antique and modern microphotographic collectables.
"Stanhopes: A Closer View"
a book by Jean Scott
"Stanhopes: A Closer View" is an authoritative and comprehensive
handbook about microphotographic novelties,
illustrated by colour photographs of delightful
collectables and astonishing enlargements of
historical microphotographs.
