Observation binoculars - Ingénieur Opticien - 1850-1900 - France - Chavannaz - Bordeaux

Antique French theater/opera monocular - Chavannaz Bordeaux - Mother-of-pearl and brass - ca. 1890

Exceptionally nicely executed antique French theater monocular or opera monocular, dating from circa 1890

The monocular originates from Bordeaux, France, and bears the designation of Chavannaz, Ingénieur Opticien, located at 37 Cours de l'Intendance in Bordeaux.

This type of luxury theater monocular was used at the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century during visits to theatres and opera houses. In addition to the optical function, much attention was paid to appearance and finish.

This specimen is especially richly styled with natural mother-of-pearl. Not only are the two large parts of the monocular covered with mother-of-pearl, but also around the eyepieces and on the central focus knob mother-of-pearl has been applied.

The natural mother-of-pearl shows beautiful varying color tones and luster, depending on the incidence of light. In combination with brass/metal, this gives the monocular the elegant appearance that is characteristic of luxury French optical instruments from this period.

Details:

- Object: theater monocular / opera monocular
- Maker / optician: Chavannaz
- Designation: Ingénieur Opticien
- Address: 37 Cours de l'Intendance, Bordeaux
- Provenance: Bordeaux, France
- Period: circa 1890-1910
- Material: natural mother-of-pearl, brass/metal and glass
- Decoration: mother-of-pearl on the monocular, around the eyepieces and on the focus knob
- Optics: double field glass
- Use: theater and opera

Condition:

The theater monocular is in used antique condition with age- and wear-related traces appropriate for an object of more than 100 years old.

The mother-of-pearl retains its characteristic natural luster and color variations.

A particularly decorative and collectible example of a French theater monocular from the Belle Époque period and an attractive object for collectors of antique optical instruments, theater and opera objects, and objects finished in mother-of-pearl.

View the photos carefully. They form an important part of the description and give a good impression of the execution, details and condition of the object.

Carefully packed and insured shipment.