Georgian folding lorgnettes
Georgian folding lorgnettes
6248
A pair of Georgian folding lorgnettes in yellow metal with cast foliate decoration, circa 1810.
Lorgnettes, handheld eyeglasses with a short handle, were invented in the early 19th century. Designed for ease of use, they allowed users to quickly view distant objects while maintaining an elegant appearance. Initially popular in France, lorgnettes became a fashionable accessory among the elite.
Their design evolved over time, incorporating decorative elements and intricate craftsmanship, making them both practical and stylish. They remained in use until the development of modern spectacles and are now prized as collectible antiques.
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