Antique Georgian miniature folding fob spy or opera glass, pendant in original box. Gilt metal and paste gems. Made in France circa 1820.
Measurements:
Weight is 29.3 grams, not including the box. Diameter 1 3/8 inch (3.3cm). Length when extended is 2 inches (5cm). When closed approximately 7/8 inch (2.2cm).
Description :
Small spy glass or opera glass / lorgnette for using at the theatre or other venue. 3 brass sections pull out to extending the length of the optical distance and fold back in when not in use. Gilt ridged borders between all sections.
The main body of the opera glass begins with a ring of gorgeous deep blue paste gems. A central band of chased, repousse (raised) flowers in gilded metal with exquisite detail. Some flowers centered by cabochon turquoise. Within is a ring of larger cabochon turquoise paste gems held in gilded prongs. Gilt ridged borders separate sections of the concentric rings. Front with gilded mount holding the glass.
A strong protruding gilded 'ball' holds a large matching loop that can be used to thread a large sized chain. The miniature opera spy glass could then be worn as a pendant around the neck on a chain. It would then be conveniently available for use whenever the wearer needs to view something up close or make a fashion statement at the end of a chatelaine or chain.
Miniature eyeglasses are extremely rare and this is a particularly lovely example. The contrast between the gold, deep blue and the turquoise is stunning as is the very fine workmanship of the repousse flowers.
Original fitted case is pear-shaped, made of red leather with silk lining. Catch and hinge are in good, working condition.
Marks and Metal:
No marks were found.
Condition:
Considering its age, this miniature opera glass is in great condition. All parts appear to be original. Box is original and in great shape. One small turquoise paste is missing. Some wear to gilding parts around glass - not visible with naked eye, but shown magnified in pictures. Please see enlarged pictures and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer.
THE STORY:
The Georgians and Victorians were masters of imaginative miniature works of art. They managed to make items that were extremely versatile - serving a functional purpose as well as forming wildly attractive adornments. While serving as a useful tool to aid vision, this little ornament is utterly beautiful and would make a great addition to a jewelry box, whether from the early 1800's or today.
Being so practical, the Georgians often wore 'tools or implements' on chains or chatelaines. Since they were part of their attire, they reflected the wealth and taste of royalty and a luxurious culture. We commonly find little etuis, manicure and other personal adornment items as well as tools that would come in handy at any given moment. Since the nightly pastimes of the rich and cultured was often a visit to the theatre or opera, a jeweled opera glass would certainly come in handy. It was as important to be seen as gorgeous as to actually see the performers and one's neighbors.
