Summary

Note: This object includes a derogatory human depictions and white superiority messaging. Such depictions are not condoned by Museums Victoria which considers them to be racist. Historical distance and context do not excuse or erase this fact.

Colour glass lantern slide of an illustration titled 'Colour Scale'. The text characterises racial types by degree of 'blackness', with associated hair, skin and eye colour. Made by Alex. Gunn & Sons, Melbourne, Victoria, circa 1930s.

One of a set of over 420 lantern slides, used by lecturer Walter S. Binks, a popular psychology and vocational guidance lecturer based in Melbourne, Victoria. Binks gave lectures throughout Australia in the 1930s and 1940s. Binks advertised his lectures as associated with the Australasian Opportunity League or Universal Opportunity League.

Purchased by the donor at an opportunity shop. The collection was stored in three wooden trays (two compartments in each tray), and 95 slides stored separately. Many of the slides were produced in Melbourne from images and cuttings presumably supplied by Binks.

Description of Content

A 'colour scale' chart for 'hair', 'skin' and 'eyes'.

Physical Description

Standard format (3 1/4 x 3 1/4 inch square) colour lantern slide, with image printed on glass.

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