Theatre binoculars - 1850-1900 - Italy - Weiss
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Current bid
€ 6
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Selected by Rob ter Ellen
Over 35 years' experience specialising in cameras and optical equipment.
Estimate € 160 - € 200
 | €6 | |
|---|---|---|
| €5 | |
| €4 | |
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Elegant theatre binoculars dating from the late 19th century, branded Weiss with “G. Weiss – Ottico – Trieste” on the oculars, nickel‑plated brass with a mother‑of‑pearl shell, one piece, in good condition and tested working, dimensions 5 cm high by 11 cm wide by 6 cm deep, weight 158 g, made in Italy.
AI-assisted summary
Description from the seller
Elegant antique theater binoculars, finely veneered in natural iridescent mother-of-pearl, including the long hinged side handle. The segmented mother-of-pearl workmanship creates beautiful pink, green, and pearlescent reflections.
The oculars bear the signature “G. WEISS – OTTICO – TRIESTE,” attributable to Giacomo Weiss, Bavarian-origin optician active in Trieste from 1854 to 1904. The sources of the Civico Museums of Trieste document his historic optics shop, where theater binoculars and other optical instruments were sold.
In terms of type, materials, and Weiss’s period of activity, the specimen is plausibly attributed to the second half / end of the 19th century, possibly the very early years of the 20th century.
The object is presented in good overall condition for its age: the mother-of-pearl is well preserved and particularly luminous, the structure complete and the lenses intact. The optics are still usable and offer a sharp view. Normal signs of aging are present, with small traces of oxidation/wear and residues around one of the oculars, clearly documented in the photographs.
An interesting collectible linked to the history of Trieste optics in the 19th century, as well as a refined theater accessory of the era.
Elegant antique theater binoculars, finely veneered in natural iridescent mother-of-pearl, including the long hinged side handle. The segmented mother-of-pearl workmanship creates beautiful pink, green, and pearlescent reflections.
The oculars bear the signature “G. WEISS – OTTICO – TRIESTE,” attributable to Giacomo Weiss, Bavarian-origin optician active in Trieste from 1854 to 1904. The sources of the Civico Museums of Trieste document his historic optics shop, where theater binoculars and other optical instruments were sold.
In terms of type, materials, and Weiss’s period of activity, the specimen is plausibly attributed to the second half / end of the 19th century, possibly the very early years of the 20th century.
The object is presented in good overall condition for its age: the mother-of-pearl is well preserved and particularly luminous, the structure complete and the lenses intact. The optics are still usable and offer a sharp view. Normal signs of aging are present, with small traces of oxidation/wear and residues around one of the oculars, clearly documented in the photographs.
An interesting collectible linked to the history of Trieste optics in the 19th century, as well as a refined theater accessory of the era.
Details
Shell type
Mother of pearl
Metal type
Nickel plated brass
Weight
158 g
Era
1400-1900
Number of objects
1
Manufacturer/brand
Weiss
Material
Metal, Shell
Country of origin
Italy
Style
Vintage
Physical condition
Good
Functional condition
Tested and working
Height
5 cm
Width
11 cm
Type
Theatre binoculars
Depth
6 cm
Estimated period
1850-1900
Title additional information
G. Weiss Optical Trieste –
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