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Frank DeFreitas Holography | Allentown, PA | Phone: 610-770-0341

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Biblical / Christian 3D History

Publishing Notes
Updated 14 February 2012

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Mission Statement:
The holography reading room collects, preserves, and displays artifacts associated with the history of light, optics, lasers, holography and 3D.

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All visits *MUST* be made by prior reservation. No exceptions.
NEXT OPEN HOUSE: Saturday, March 3, 2012
Call or Email *NOW* to RSVP: 610-770-0341
COST: Free


Close up detail of a diamond cross, 3D laser hologram.
The diamonds sparkle, but the cross isn't there.
It is made entirely of laser light.
Reach for it, and your fingers grasp nothing.

Biblical / Christian 3D Historical Collection FAQ:

*WHY* is there a collection / exhibit of Judaic - Christian 3D?
With the increasing popularity of 3D movies and television, there is a renewed interest in the general history of 3D. Many people are very surprised to learn that 3D has been with us since the middle of the 19th century!

In general, while one will find an abundance of information online about the history of 3D in various categories (such as medical imaging, advertising, movies, etc.), there is very little information documenting the history of three dimensional imaging in Christianity.

Most importantly, the collection exists so that people can visit it in Allentown, Pennsylvania. One cannot rely on their computers to see the beauty and astonishing realism of these 3D visual images. They must be seen and experienced in person.

*WHEN* did Christian 3D begin?
Christian 3D began right along with the earliest stereoscopic photography in the mid 19th century (1850's). It continued through early stereoview cards (mid 19th through early 20th century), and to the offset printing of mass repicated 3D lenticular images, and film-based imaging (mid 20th century). After seeing somewhat of a lull in production and interest in the latter half of the 20th century, it has emerged once again through today's latest technologies: digital, wide-screen HD televisions, electronic hand held devices, and three-dimensional laser holograms.


Various 3D imaging technologies:
From the earliest stereoscopic, to the latest
in laser holographic recordings.

*HOW* did the collection get started?
I work with, and collect, items related to the history of three-dimensional imaging, particularly the field of holography. My collection is called "Antiquarian Holographica". It contains over 20,000 historical items, and it has taken over 35 years to assemble. The Christian 3D history collection is a division of the main holdings.

*WHAT* will I see when I visit?
In essence, you will see the Judaic - Christian history of three dimensional photographic / holographic imaging. These 3D photographic artifacts depict pieces and places of culture and activity described in the Bible, and in everyday living: from the earliest stereoscopic methods, to modern laser imaging. For over 150 years, they have inspired generations to expand their knowledge of God's Word and world.

In order to present the collection in a orderly way, I have broken it down into several several main categories, according to each 3D format type:

• antique glass plate stereographs
  
• stereoscopic French tissue views
  
• standard stereoview photographic cards
  
• lenticulars and Xographs
  
• stereo film strips
  
• stereo film cards
  
• view-master reels
  
• anaglyphics
  
• holograms (embossed, film, and glass plate, still imagery and motion)
  
• digital HD autostereoscopic technologies (for 3D televisions and electronic hand-held devices / tablets).
  
  

You'll also see raised engravings (3D), as well as optical illusions.

You'll see, first-hand:

• 3D vistas of the Holy Land from the late 19th century
  
• a 20th century holographic recording of the diamond crucifixion pectoral from Peter the Great, Czar of Russia
  
• the wooden pew bench of George Washington and Benjamin Franklin from Christ Church in Philadelphia
  
• the writing desk of Martin Luther, where he translated the Bible
  
• a laser hologram of Our Lady of Guadalupe
  
• lenticulars such as "Madonna of the Streets" by Roberto Ferruzzi, and Leonardo DaVinci's The Last Supper
  
• 3D versions of the most famous paintings, such as Raphael's "Madonna della Seggiola" 1514 (Madonna of the Chair).
  

You'll also see:

• 3D lenticulars of famous sculpture, such as "The Pieta" by Michaelangelo
  
• damage done to European Churches during World War I
  
• the place where Jesus Christ was born
  
• the tomb where Jesus Christ was laid to rest before his Resurrection
  
• original cover artwork and photography, such as View-Master's famous "The Christmas Story"
  
• Gloria Dei (Old Swedes 1677) Church Burial Ground, Philadelphia
  
• and so much more.
  

All of this in 3D, and every piece is an original, not a reproduction. Some pieces are held in esteemed historical collections such as the Library of Congress, and the George Eastman House Library Archive.

*WHERE* can I see the collection?
The collection / exhibit room is within my private home, located in the downtown historic district of Allentown, Pennsylvania. It is a quick and easy drive from both the New York City and Philadelphia areas, as well as Scranton, Lancaster, Binghamton, Syracuse, Wilmington, Baltimore, and Washington D.C.

*WHEN* can I visit the collection?
Visitors are welcome at any time, weekdays, evenings and weekends, by advanced appointment only. This is so that I can be here when you ring the bell. I also offer an open house, usually on the first Saturday of each month. The next scheduled open house should be posted at the top and bottom of this web page.

*WHO* is the collection appropriate for?
Anyone who is interested in the history of Christianity. My entire micro-museum content is appropriate for all ages. I usually have a few holograms to hand out to the younger visitors.

*WHAT* is the cost to visit?
Currently, I personally provide a 30+ minute tour of the collection at no cost whatsoever. If you wish to provide a token of your appreciation, that is entirely up to you, but please do not feel obligated in any way. It is my pleasure to provide this service and historical display for you, my visitor.

Best Regards,
Frank DeFreitas



All visits *MUST* be made by prior reservation. No exceptions.
NEXT OPEN HOUSE: Saturday, March 3, 2012
Call or Email *NOW* to RSVP: 610-770-0341
COST: Free

* This is a privately-owned residence, and a privately-owned collection. It receives no local, state or federal funding. I consider visitors as guests in my home, not customers. There are six outdoor steps leading up to the first floor door.