Vectograph

Vectographs, a type of photomechanical stereo imagery pioneered by the Polaroid Corporation during the 1940s, represent a remarkable intersection of science and art. These monochromatic prints or transparent visuals are the product of a unique chemical process involving iodine and oriented polyvinyl alcohol film, rendering them viewable only through specialized polarized lenses. Their utility extended across diverse fields: ophthalmology adopted them for vision assessments, while the US military harnessed their potential during World War II for aerial reconnaissance and technical illustrations. In the realm of artistic expression, a select group of stereo photographers continued to explore Vectographs as a creative medium, particularly into the 1980s.

Within the Polaroid Corporation Records housed at Harvard Business School’s Baker Library, an extensive array of Vectographs, intermediate negatives, film samples, prototypes, and related documentation resides. Some of these Vectographs have withstood the passage of time in impeccable condition, while others have experienced severe deterioration, necessitating a comprehensive condition assessment and material analysis. This invaluable data has subsequently informed the development of a preservation strategy for the collection. This paper endeavors to delve into the intricacies of Vectograph production, its historical significance, the challenges posed by deterioration, and the strategies employed to ensure the lasting preservation of these stereo marvels.