A charming pair of late 19th to early 20th century French opera glasses by Flammarion, with gilt brass fittings, textured brown leather-covered barrels and glass lenses.
Designed for use at the theatre or opera, these compact binoculars have rectangular objective ends, rounded eyepieces and a central focusing wheel. The bridge is marked “Flammarion”, indicating a French optical maker or retailer, most likely Paris.
The leather covering has a rich textured surface, contrasted by the warm aged gilt metal frame. There is wear, patination and surface marking throughout, consistent with age and handling. A decorative and collectible pair of French theatre glasses with strong period character.
The lens and viewfinder are now unsuitable for consistent viewing as intended by the maker, they are now suited for light handling and in my opinion, deserve to retire in a glass cabinet to admire.
Paris, c.1900-1920.
A charming pair of late 19th to early 20th century French opera glasses by Flammarion, with gilt brass fittings, textured brown leather-covered barrels and glass lenses.
Designed for use at the theatre or opera, these compact binoculars have rectangular objective ends, rounded eyepieces and a central focusing wheel. The bridge is marked “Flammarion”, indicating a French optical maker or retailer, most likely Paris.
The leather covering has a rich textured surface, contrasted by the warm aged gilt metal frame. There is wear, patination and surface marking throughout, consistent with age and handling. A decorative and collectible pair of French theatre glasses with strong period character.
The lens and viewfinder are now unsuitable for consistent viewing as intended by the maker, they are now suited for light handling and in my opinion, deserve to retire in a glass cabinet to admire.
Paris, c.1900-1920.
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