Abstract: An apparatus for optical examination of documents. The apparatus includes a light source, a viewing unit having a window through which light emitted from the light source exits for examination of documents by an observer. A method for optical examination of a document. The method steps include: providing a light source; emitting light from the light source into a viewing unit; emitting light from the viewing unit through a window; applying fluid to a document to be viewed; and, bringing the document into contact with the window such that an observer can examine the document.