These early Chinese eyeglasses have round glass lenses framed in horn, a high rectangular brass nose piece or bridge (see photo #2 for possible maker's mark), and brass hinged double folding temples or side pieces which terminate in a circular piece of horn to rest against the head.  They are in excellent condition and measure 4 7/8 inches from hinge to hinge across the front and the side pieces measure 5 1/2 inches when fully extended. The brass pieces are attached with tiny smooth brass pegs as screws were not used until later. Although most of the early Chinese eyeglasses were worn as a symbol of wealth and status, this pair actually does seem to have slight magnifying power.

Accompanying the eyeglasses is its original and excellent condition most exquisite stiff cardboard case covered in black silk with beads and colored stones attached or sewn with thread through tiny holes to form the image of a gorgeous butterfly and flower. Also included is information on who purchased the item (see photos #12 and 13). The vertical case has a continuous cord with a loop for attaching to the belt and keeping the top portion attached to the lower portion and ending in two decorative tassels. 

Images of similar Chinese glasses and cases can be seen in the book “Eyewear”, Ali Occhiali, published 1977  by Chronicle Books, pages 102 through 107.  This is a most unusual pair of early Chinese eyeglasses for your collection of eye wear and an excellent example of an early stitched bead worked case that would grace any collection of Asian textile art. This item makes a HAPPY eyeglass buyer! 

NO RESERVE!