Antique French Opera Glasses, Binocular, 19th Century Carved Ivory Barrels, Clear Optics
Beautiful 19th century pair of binoculars, vest-sized for opera, opera glasses. They're French and Napoleon III (Victorian), c.1850-70s. Likely first marketed from the Palais Royal with its storied history as the palace of Cardinale Richelieu, and the later history as cultural gathering place with boutiques offering the finest goods in the world to a patronage of wealthy and titled elite of society. Full measurements noted on the photos. Very good to excellent condition for age and type. This pair is well-preserved for time, only a single hairline from age/shrinkage of the natural material and you see that on one eyepiece. The barrels, also ivory, have a single tight line. Flaws marked on photos for your review. Lenses are clear, undamaged, no surface abrasions, though they would benefit from the set being opened to clean the interior lenses. IMPORTANT NOTE regarding antique tortoise shell or ivory: We are great supporters of protection for endangered species in our modern world. We