18th Century Round Mother-of-pearl And Silver Folding Reading Glasses

18th Century Round Mother-of-pearl And Silver Folding Reading Glasses-photo-2

18th Century Round Mother-of-pearl And Silver Folding Reading Glasses-photo-3

18th Century Round Mother-of-pearl And Silver Folding Reading Glasses-photo-4

18th Century Round Mother-of-pearl And Silver Folding Reading Glasses-photo-1

18th Century Round Mother-of-pearl And Silver Folding Reading Glasses-photo-5

18th Century Round Mother-of-pearl And Silver Folding Reading Glasses-photo-6

18th Century Round Mother-of-pearl And Silver Folding Reading Glasses

This precious folding pocket telescope consists of a case made up of two mother-of-pearl shells joined by silver rosettes. Into this, a magnifying glass, set in a silver mount, pivots on an axis. In the 18th century, mother-of-pearl was highly prized for its iridescent reflections. It was used as inlay in marquetry but also in goldsmithing, jewelry and haberdashery.

The object does not bear any hallmarks, tested with a touchstone.
England, 18th century, circa 1760-80

Note: Old repair with plate and rivets (see photos)

Dimensions 7cm x 3.9cm x 1.2cm folded, length 12cm unfolded
Weight 40g

400 €