Observation binoculars - 1910-1920 - France - Colmont Paris, lentes Zingraff & Conjunto de 2 perfumeros de viaje

Colmont Paris theatre binoculars in mother-of-pearl and gilded brass - 19th Century

Elegant theatre or opera binoculars (jumelles de théâtre) manufactured by the prestigious Colmont house of Paris, one of the most renowned French optical firms of the 19th century. The inscription 'Colmont Paris' with the star and the letter 'C' is engraved on the central bridge, while on one of the lens rings the address '184 Rue de Rivoli, Paris' is read, confirming their provenance. The mark 'ZINGRAFF Paris' visible on the other objective indicates the optical distributor. These binoculars date from the late 19th century, approximately between 1870 and 1890.

They are made with authentic mother-of-pearl-coated tubes, with plates showing pink, golden, and greenish iridescences characteristic of this noble material. The metal framework is gilded brass with chiseled details and decorative moldings along the edges. The central focusing wheel is also crafted in carved mother-of-pearl with fine striations. The approximate dimensions are around 9-10 cm wide by 5 cm high, a compact hand-held theatre twin format. They include their original leather case.

The overall condition is generally good. The nacre retains its shine and beauty, with minimal signs of use. The gilded brass shows some loss of gilding and natural patina due to time, especially visible on the bridge and edges. The optics are complete and the mechanisms function perfectly. The leather case shows wear corresponding to its age.

19th-Century French Belle Époque theatre binoculars are highly valued by collectors of antique optical objects and 19th-century luxury accessories. The Colmont Paris brand, together with its location on the elegant Rue de Rivoli, denotes a high-quality piece intended for the affluent class that attended the opera and theatre. The combination of worked mother-of-pearl with gilded brass and the preservation of the original case significantly increases its appeal and collectible value.

Period: 19th Century
Material: Mother-of-pearl, Brass, Glass, Leather
Origin: France
Manufacturer: Colmont Paris
Condition: Good

The set is completed with an elegant travel set from the same era consisting of two crystal perfume flasks with silvered caps, presented in their original brown/dark burgundy leather case with a flap closure and snap button. This type of vanity case was very popular from the late 19th century to the early decades of the 20th century, designed to transport fragrances safely during travel, for both ladies and gentlemen of the time.

The bottles are made of transparent crystal with rectangular shape, topped with metal caps with a silver finish (they are not silver, but common metal possibly nickel-plated or chromed) with snap closure. The case is made of dark brown/burgundy tanned leather with machine-stitched perimeter seam, flap closure with metal snap button, and untreated natural leather lining. The estimated dimensions of the case are approximately 8 x 5 x 12 cm closed.

This type of travel perfume sets are sought-after by collectors of vintage vanity items, vanity cases, and period travel gear. Its compact form, quality leather work, and the elegance of the ensemble make it a decorative as well as collectible object. It represents an era when travel accessories were crafted with artisanal care and durable materials.

Period: Late 19th Century to Early 20th Century
Material: Crystal, Leather, Silvered Metal
Origin: France
Condition: Good