Antique Gold Filled Lorgnette Spectacles

Simply put, a lorgnette is a pair of spectacles (glasses) mounted on a handle. The word comes from the French lorgne which means “to take a sidelong look at”. Lorngettes were invented in England by George Adams circa 1770 and remained popular into the early 1800s as more elaborate forms were created.

This elegant pair is gold filled and is hinged at the nose piece, folding compactly to fit neatly into a pocket or reticule for easy access. They could also be fastened to a chain with a dog clip. A clever twist on the long handle, and they open! Perfect for perusing a piece of correspondence, or to examine a rare bloom in one's hothouse, they give the wearer an attractive and quaint manner in which to magnify matters.

Details (approximate)

Dimensions: 6"

Weight: 2.6 grams

Materials: Gold filled metal; Magnifying lenses

Marks: None

Condition: Excellent Antique condition

LORL, LOE