In optics, a prism is a transparent optical element with flat, polished surfaces that refract light. The exact angles between the surfaces depend on the application. The traditional geometrical shape is that of a triangular prism with a triangular base and rectangular sides, and in colloquial use "prism" usually refers to this type.

Some types of optical prism are not in fact in the shape of geometric prisms. Prisms are typically made out of glass, but can be made from any material that is transparent to the wavelengths for which they are designed.

The "prism" used for these photographic images are in actuality, a depression era piece of glass that was used by this artist's grandmother as a modest and very functional paper weight. Thanks for visiting and please come back often!

Primitive Prism No. 1 ©2011 Eric Hatheway All Rights Reserved

Primitive Prism No. 2 ©2011 Eric Hatheway All Rights Reserved