Three-dimensional miniature scenes or displays, often in museums, that show a moment in history, nature, or storytelling with realistic models and painted backgrounds.
From Greek 'dia' (through) and 'horama' (view). The term was coined in the early 19th century for theatrical optical illusions that seemed to show depth, then adapted for museum displays.
Dioramas were literally the 'immersive virtual reality' of the 1800s—people were amazed that you could step up to a glass case and feel transported to ancient Egypt or a dinosaur swamp.
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