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LicenseSpectacles, hand, folding, gilt metal, engraved, English
Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum
Spectacles, hand, folding, gilt metal, engraved, English, 1730-1860
Handheld spectacles were the height of fashion in the 1700s and 1800s. This is a gilt example. Oval-shaped lenses were popular. The frame design is knotted at one end to act as a handle.
The spectacles rested on the nose so the wearer could see. They were not worn for a long time because the wearer would soon experience arm ache. They were probably for occasional use by a wealthy owner.
Details
- Category:
- Ophthalmology
- Collection:
- Sir Henry Wellcome's Museum Collection
- Object Number:
- A681867
- Measurements:
-
overall: 6 mm x 85 mm x 28 mm, .01kg
unfolded: 136 mm x 28 mm,
- type:
- spectacles
