The Magic Lantern is an early type of image projector that uses a light source to shine images from transparent slides onto a surface, typically a wall or screen. Invented in the 17th century, it was one of the first devices to project images and is considered a precursor to modern film projectors. The device consists of a light source, a lens, and painted glass slides. Magic Lanterns were popular for entertainment and educational purposes, often used to tell stories or illustrate lectures. They played a significant role in the development of visual media before the advent of cinema.