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Brenda Ginsberg Antique Jewelry

Antique Georgian folding fob spy glass Opera Glass turquoise gilt MOP (7518)

Antique Georgian folding fob spy glass Opera Glass turquoise gilt MOP (7518)

Regular price $1,200.00 USD
Regular price Sale price $1,200.00 USD
Sale Sold out

Antique Georgian folding telescoping fob spy glass or opera glass lorgnette. Gilt brass, turquoise beads, mother of pearl. French, circa 1820's. 
 

Measurements:

Weight is 13.5 grams. Diameter a little over 1 inch (28mm).  20mm when closed and 28mm when extended. 

Description :

Small spy glass or opera glass / lorgnette for using at the theatre or other venue. Two draws that pull out extending the length of the optical distance. Gilt brass with French cannetille flowers with golden globule centres. Approximately  every 8mm is a raised turquoise bead held in gilded colettes and prongs. Above and below this ring of beautiful gold and turquoise blue is a ring of mother of pearl cut into a tiny, pleated form, like a Tudor collar. The front has a very narrow ring of gilded brass with beaded pattern and crimped edge, followed by the brass mount holding the glass. 
A pair of loops for attaching the spyglass to a long chain so that it could be worn as a jewel or pendant around the neck and is 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 eye glasses are extremely rare and this is a particularly lovely example. The contrast between the gold and the turquoise is stunning as is the very fine workmanship of the canetille and beading. 


Marks and Metal:

no marks.
     

Condition:

Good with minor wear commensurate with age. Tiny chips to some of the turquoise beads.  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 jewelled 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 neighbours. 

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