Crafting Artificial Eyes: A Historical Approach to a Fascinating Art Form
In the realm of medical innovation, the creation and development of artificial eyes have a rich and fascinating history. This article explores the evolution of this field, from its humble beginnings in ancient civilizations to the sophisticated modern ocular prosthetics and bionic eye technologies of today.
Ancient to Pre-Modern History
The roots of artificial eyes can be traced back to ancient times, where early prosthetic eyes served primarily as cosmetic devices for those who had lost their eyes due to injury or disease. These early prostheses, often made from materials like painted clay or stone, aimed primarily at aesthetic restoration rather than functional vision.
As we move into the Renaissance (14th century onwards), the understanding of ocular science advanced with better anatomical knowledge. The first specialized eye physicians, called "oculists," appeared, and notable anatomical discoveries regarding the eye’s structure were made. However, prosthetic eye technology remained primarily cosmetic [2].
Development of Modern Prosthetic Eyes
In the modern era, prosthetic eyes are custom-crafted using advanced materials such as medical-grade acrylic to blend aesthetically and physically with the patient's eye socket. Professional ocularistry involves precise fitting, artistic painting, and adjustments to create a natural appearance and comfortable fit.
Today, professional eye makers are called ocularists, and they work in a field called ocularistry. They are not doctors and have various backgrounds. The function of a prosthetic eye is much less physiological than it is artistic, meant to create illusion rather than restore vision [5].
Contemporary Advances and Bionic Eyes
The latest developments focus on restoring vision, not just aesthetics. Bionic or electronic eyes integrate artificial intelligence and neural technology to provide visual perception to the blind. For instance, Neuralink is collaborating with research teams in Spain and California to develop a “Smart Bionic Eye” using brain-computer interface (BCI) technology. This device aims to implant chips in the brain’s visual cortex, enabling the brain to process visual data directly. Clinical trials are underway to explore this technology with goals for face recognition, navigation, and reading abilities around 2030–2031 [3].
Notable Figures in Ocularistry
Dan Roche, the author of "Love's Labors", "Great Expectation", and "Eyes by Hand", is one such figure in the field of ocularistry. In addition to his literary works, Roche teaches creative writing, journalism, and literature at Le Moyne College, in Syracuse, NY. His personal and intimate approach to the creation of artificial eyes reflects the human touch that is essential in this profession, which requires not only technical and artistic skills but also listening and empathy skills.
Historical Findings
Histories of artificial eyes often start with the ancient Egyptians, who made eyes for mummies using wax, plaster, and precious stones. An even older eye was found in a skeleton in Spain, estimated to be 7,000 years old. In 2006, a woman's artificial eye made of natural tar, animal fat, bitumen paste, or gold was discovered in Shahr-e Sukhteh, Iran [1].
In conclusion, the evolution spans from purely cosmetic artificial eyes in ancient cultures to highly advanced neuroprosthetic devices today, marking a progression from external replacements toward integration with the nervous system to restore function as well as form.
[1] BBC News [2] Britannica [3] Neuralink [4] American Academy of Ophthalmology [5] American Academy of Ophthalmology
- The historical development of artificial eyes can be traced back to ancient Egyptian civilization, where they created eyes for mummies using materials like wax, plaster, and precious stones.
- Today, advancements in medical-conditions and technology have led to the creation of bionic eyes, such as the ones being developed by Neuralink, which aim to integrate artificial intelligence and neural technology to provide visual perception to the blind.
- Embracing sustainable-living, one can contribute to health-and-wellness not only in lifestyle choices but also in supporting innovative research like that in home-and-garden projects, focusing on growing food organically and creating eco-friendly living spaces.
