What was the primary purpose of the Camera Lucida in art?

The primary purpose of the Camera Lucida was indeed to assist artists in drawing. This innovative device allowed artists to see their subject and the working surface simultaneously, which helped them create accurate drawings. The Camera Lucida uses a prism to reflect the image of the subject onto the drawing surface, allowing the artist to trace the outlines and details directly. This made it an invaluable tool for artists who wanted to improve their precision and detail in their work.

While the Camera Lucida was invented in the early 19th century and was similar to some concepts explored during the Renaissance, such as those by Leonardo da Vinci, its main function was not to be the first camera or a projection method for photography. Rather, it facilitated the drawing process, making it a beneficial tool for artists of that time and beyond.