Description
Rare and exceptional antique combination folding lorgnette and magnifier with slab mother-of-pearl case, c. late eighteenth or early nineteenth century.
This inventive form of folding eyeglass was invented by Englishman George Adams in 1785. Adams was the first to design a practical case for the “lorgnette,” defined as a pair of spectacles that recess into a protective handle. Adams’ design was meant to be carried in the pocket or hung around the neck with a chain. Two slabs of thick Havana mother of pearl protect the eyeglass itself, which unfolds into handheld reading glasses, then nesting back into the case, one lens on the other. This lorgnette has the addition of a surprisingly strong loupe, which appears to be a 10X magnifier. Although unmarked, the frames and fittings appear to be silver.
Not only beautiful, this exquisite early lorgnette is useful to have on hand.
Recently acquired from an important private collection of antique eyewear.
Measurements
Folded:
3 inches long
1 inch wide
Unfolded spectacles:
3.5 inches across
Condition
Very good antique condition with minor wear.
Shipping
Free in the continental United States. If an international buyer, please contact me for a shipping estimate by clicking here.
