The earliest reference to the optical theory which underlies the use of a contact lens as a vision aid is thought to be Leonardo da Vinci. The actual work by this father figure of so many different fields, both scientific and artistic appears to consist of the construction of a large translucent globe. When the globe was filled with water, and the observer immersed his face in it, there resulted the optical neutralization of the observer's corneas.www.gambleandcreswell.co.uk4, Russell St, BT61 9AA