Antique French Palais Royal Opera Glasses, Binoculars, Duc d'Orleans, late 1700s - early 1800s
From my longtime collections: RARE fine “BODSON Opt. du DUC D’ORLEANS PALAIS ROYAL, 177” is the embossment encircling the eyepieces on this stunning pair of opera glasses. Still in their original case, the set dates late 1700s to earliest 1800s. The notation refers to Louis-Philippe-Joseph, Duc d'Orléans who was a Bourbon prince who became a supporter of popular democracy during the Revolution of 1789, and helps to date the firm and the opera glasses. Very high quality, they have survived well within the wood case, which remains with it as shown. Smooth operating, and all 4 convex polished lenses are complete and in place, though it would do well to have the set taken apart to clean the interior of each lens to have a pristine clarity of view for use. Full measurements noted on photos. Very good to excellent condition for age and type, no hairlines or chips or cracks to the shell barrel covers, no damage to the mechanism or wheel. Lenses are undamaged, but they would benefit from remov