Here for your consideration is a pair of antique, circa 1880, late Victorian, 9ct yellow gold, Lorgnette spectacles with sprung release lenses, foliate engraved, engine turned, decoration to handle and frames, complete with shagreen case.

The inner bridge is assay stamped and hallmarked with the makers initial SL and stamped 9k for 9ct gold. To open these beautiful lorgnette spectacles you push up on the base ring and they simple unlock.

Condition: The lorgnette spectacles have no dents, scratches, or repairs and are in lovely original condition having been protected by their case. They do have some beautiful 9k gold patina/patination commensurate with 153 years of age, but nothing unusual. The shagreen case is also in a good used condition. Some tiny chips and losses .. but only to be expected for a spectacles case that is 153 years of age.

Lorgnettes ...

A lorgnette is a pair of spectacles with a handle, used to hold them in place, rather than fitting over the ears or nose. The word lorgnette is derived from the French lorgner, to take a sidelong look at, and Middle French, from lorgne, squinting.

Their precise origin is debated: some sources describe English scientist George Adams the elder as their inventor, while others cite his son George Adams the younger. 

The lorgnette was usually used as a piece of jewellery, rather than to enhance vision. Fashionable ladies usually preferred them to spectacles. These were very popular at masquerade parties and used often at the opera. They were worn popularly in the 19th century. The lorgnette was employed as a prop and affectation by early 20th century trial lawyer Earl Rogers, and one is featured on the front cover dust jacket of his biography, Final Verdict, by his daughter Adela Rogers St. Johns. 


Dimensions as follows ...

Lorgnettes

Length: 7.25 inches or 18.4 cm (open)
Length: 5.75 inches or 14.7 cm (closed)
Width: 1.75 inches or 4.2 cm (closed)
Depth: 0.2 inch or 5 mm (closed)
Weight: 25 grams or 0.9 oz

Shagreen Case 

Length: 6.75 inches or 17.1 cm (closed)
Width: 2.75 inches or 7 cm (closed)
Depth: 1 inch or 2.5 cm (closed)
Weight: 62 grams or 2.2 oz

This is as good as it gets with regards to late Victorian, 9k gold lorgnette spectacles and case. How many of these have you seen still intact and original. This is an extremely rare find indeed. I've only got one pair, once they've gone .... they're gone. You'll never find another pair this good, and if there's one thing I've learned about antiques/collectables when items are of quality, he who hesitates, usually loses out.  


These beautiful, 9k gold, sprung release, lorgnette spectacles and shagreen case would add value to any collection. Rare, antique, late Victorian foliate engraved lorgnette spectacles and shagreen cases have become so very collectable and are appreciating in value. A stylish pair of 9k gold lorgnette spectacles & case with stunning detailed decoration. A real must for any serious collector. 


These would make an ideal gift and could actually still be used today as reading spectacles. If you wanted to get noticed, they'd certainly be a real talking point when worn suspended from a chain around the neck.


The 9k gold lorgnette spectacles and case will be sent out recorded, special delivery with insurance. 


Please note, all our international postal charges are only estimates and will be confirmed and altered up or down when we know the destination of where items are being sent. Please also note we only charge actual costs of postage and packaging with insurance, no more. 


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