Create mesmerising geometric art using nothing but mirrors and symmetry. A kaleidoscope exploits the mathematics of reflective groups to transform any pattern into intricate n-fold symmetric beauty.
Kaleidoscopes create n-fold rotational symmetry by placing mirrors at 180°/n angles, exploiting dihedral symmetry groups (Dn). Any asymmetric pattern, reflected n times, appears perfectly symmetric.
Move the mouse to draw in the primary wedge — watch patterns instantly replicate through all mirror segments. Adjust the number of segments (3 to 12) and try different colour palettes.
The kaleidoscope was patented by Sir David Brewster in 1817. Within three months of its release, over 200,000 were sold in London and Paris alone — one of the fastest-selling inventions of the 19th century.