Historical Research

The Museum of Vision offers research services in the history of ophthalmology, the American Academy of Ophthalmology and related subjects.

Researchers may make appointments to meet with museum staff and perform research on-site. Researchers who cannot come to our facility can send in a written research request via e-mail or letter. Requests will be handled by museum staff and mailed back within two weeks. (Note that all materials distributed will be photocopies.) Please direct e-mail requests to museum@aao.org.

Photographic Services
The Museum of Vision provides photographic services for the collection. Conventional, digital, black and white or color photographs can be acquired for personal use. When making a photographic request, please specify format and size of the photo.

Much of the museum’s materials are copyrighted. Photographic services may require the signing of licenses or similar documents prior to release of material.

Identification of Ophthalmic Instruments
The Museum of Vision offers identification services for instruments, artifacts and other material related to ophthalmic history. Identification services can include dating of artifacts, the history of the maker or manufacturer, use of instrument and material composition. The Museum of Vision can also provide practical advice on the care and storage of antiques.

We cannot offer appraisals for any item brought to us for the purpose of identification, loan, donation or exhibit. If you would like to find a qualified appraiser in your area, contact the American Society of Appraisers at www.appraisers.org or 703.478.2228.