Enlarger

Manufacturer / MakerCreated by Burke & James, Inc.

Date1940

Mediumwood

Dimensionsenlarger: 14 1/2 × 13 1/4 in. (36.8 × 33.7 cm)
switch: 2 1/2 × 4 1/4 in. (6.4 × 10.8 cm)

ClassificationsTools, Implements & Weights

Credit LineAlbuquerque Museum, gift of Robert Ellis

Object numberPC1990.50.1

DescriptionThis enlarger, dating back to 1940, features a largely cylindrical shape, reminiscent of a desk lamp shade. The top of the device features a small, cylindrical shape with small, punched circles bordering the top perimeter. Below this, a red line contours the cylindrical shape. The flattened circular top encompasses a main, black wire connected, appearing to have yellow tape surrounding it, holding it in place. Moving downwards, the body of the device is much larger and slightly flared outwards in a dome-like shape. Towards the bottom of the shape, an oval label reading "Solar" in large red lettering is visible, along with "Manufactured by / Burke & James, Inc., Chicago, IL" just below it in small, red lettering. Established in 1897 in Chicago, IL, the company played a significant role in the photography world, serving as an importer and manufacturer of cameras and other photography tools and equipment. The bottom portion of the head of the device showcases three red lines contouring the cylindrical shape, mirroring the line that appears at the top. Viewing the interior of the device, a rounded, 200-watt lightbulb is visible. Connected to the wire is a circular, red piece, reminiscent of a button, with a circular red and white label reading "Solar Table / Switch" in large red lettering. A small metal piece sits in the center, while "On" and "Off" are written on either side in white and red lettering. Likely utilized for controlling the lamp portion of the device, this portion likely assisted in keeping the device's function as accurate as possible. Gaining widespread notireiety during the late nineteenth century to the mid twentieth century, the enlarger, in this case, the Burke & James Inc. 'Solar' version, grew an audience due to the device's relatively affordable pricepoint and an increasing demand for larger photographic prints. Utilized in darkrooms to create larger prints of negatives, the device contributed to the foundation of modernized enlargers, playing a role in the still emerging stages of photographic innovation.

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