本書はAMCのディレクターであるティモシー・プラス（Timothy Prus）によって歴史的観点と遊び心を持って編集された、19世紀のスライドガラスのコレクションである。光学顕微鏡を覗いて観察するスライドガラス上の物質は科学的な側面はもちろんのこと、我々が普段目にすることがない物質が抱えている小宇宙を見せてくれる。一つ一つのスライドガラスにははっきりと劇的な瞬間が写っており、人類の出現と消えていってしまったものの間に何が起こったのかを想起させるような物語を内包しているようである。

The great technological leap forward that took place in the 19th century in optical lens systems such as the microscope meant that by the latter half of the century the exploration of the microcosm was a common pursuit amongst the scientifically minded. Individuals often became interested in a particular area or theme and were able to add significantly to the existing body of knowledge in their subject. More than this, another universe and another dimension were opened up in which to dream and travel. In The Whale’s Eyelash, Timothy Prus has edited together some of these historical explorations and recast them as a play – a play that unfolds through a series of 19th century microscope slides. Each slide contains a specific dramatic moment, and together they tell a story about what happens between the appearance of humankind and its passing away.