The cloud theater, the “Eidophusikon” (Greek: imitation of nature), was invented in London in 1781 by the English landscape painter and stage designer Philippe-Jacques de Loutherbourg. As a mechanical stage without actors, it faithfully recreated “landscapes in motion” using images, light and sound. Characteristic of the enthusiasm for nature at the time.
Because of its sophisticated lighting effects, the Eidophusikon is considered one of the forerunners of cinemas, but was forgotten relatively soon after its invention. In the Altona Museum, the lost art form can be admired in a contemporary replica based on historical models and is regularly used.
