What is deck prism?

A deck prism is a unique type of glass prism that was historically used on sailing ships to bring natural light into the lower decks of the ship. These prisms were typically installed on the deck of a ship, where they would catch sunlight and refract it down into the darker interior spaces below.

Deck prisms were commonly used in the 19th and early 20th centuries before the widespread use of electric lighting on ships. They were especially useful during cloudy or stormy weather when natural light was limited. The prisms were installed in a watertight housing on the deck, ensuring that water did not leak into the ship's interior.

In addition to providing illumination, deck prisms also had the added benefit of creating a beautiful, colorful display of light patterns on the ship's dark interior surfaces. The prisms were typically made of leaded glass, which was quite durable and able to withstand the harsh marine environment.

Today, deck prisms are mainly used for decorative purposes and can often be found in antique shops or as part of maritime-themed decor. However, some modern boats and ships still use them as a nod to the traditional maritime practices of the past.