Historical information

The Zeiss Sketchmaster was used to transfer information from aerial photographs onto scale maps.

The operator views the aerial photograph and the map simultaneously and manually traces detail from the photograph onto the map. It utilises the principle of the camera lucida, patented in 1806.

Various lens combinations were used on a to adjust for scale and then “rubber sheet” the image to line up topographic features like streams and roads.

The photo information was then laboriously transferred using a light table onto large A0 paper maps or translucent drafting film.

The maps were later hand coloured with either Derwent pencils or delicately painted with Pelikan ink wash.

This item is kept at Erica.

Physical description

Zeiss Sketchmaster. c1970s.
Includes adjustable stand, various lens in sperate box, adjustable light, map holder and magnets