Other brand - Lorgnette
Starting bid
€ 1
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Expert
Selected by Michel Karis
Art historian with extensive experience working at various auction houses in antiques.
Estimate € 140 - € 210
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Description from the seller
Antique fassamano (lorgnette, face-à-main) in gilt metal (brass), Art Nouveau / Liberty period, late 19th century.
Two round lenses set in scalloped rims decorated with small beading and chased scroll motifs, joined by an arched bridge. The handle is hinged and folds behind the lenses for storage.
The handle is the most striking feature: a twisted, rope-like stem with naturalistic tendrils, ending in an open loop with a curled scroll – a typical Liberty design, made to be held at eye level at the theatre or in society.
Dimensions: frame approx. 10 x 4 cm; handle approx. 11 cm.
The fassamano was the elegant alternative to spectacles for ladies of the 19th century. A related example in gilt engraved brass (English, 19th century) is recorded in the Italian national heritage catalogue, Museo dell'Occhiale collection (ICCD record RDO023-BDM_0000647).
CONDITION
Light wear to the gilding on the raised areas, patina consistent with age. The handle hinge is loose. Lenses clear, no visible chips. No maker's mark.
Supplied in a later spectacle case (not original).
Please see all photos, which form part of the description.
Shipped carefully packed, tracked.
Antique fassamano (lorgnette, face-à-main) in gilt metal (brass), Art Nouveau / Liberty period, late 19th century.
Two round lenses set in scalloped rims decorated with small beading and chased scroll motifs, joined by an arched bridge. The handle is hinged and folds behind the lenses for storage.
The handle is the most striking feature: a twisted, rope-like stem with naturalistic tendrils, ending in an open loop with a curled scroll – a typical Liberty design, made to be held at eye level at the theatre or in society.
Dimensions: frame approx. 10 x 4 cm; handle approx. 11 cm.
The fassamano was the elegant alternative to spectacles for ladies of the 19th century. A related example in gilt engraved brass (English, 19th century) is recorded in the Italian national heritage catalogue, Museo dell'Occhiale collection (ICCD record RDO023-BDM_0000647).
CONDITION
Light wear to the gilding on the raised areas, patina consistent with age. The handle hinge is loose. Lenses clear, no visible chips. No maker's mark.
Supplied in a later spectacle case (not original).
Please see all photos, which form part of the description.
Shipped carefully packed, tracked.
Details
Era
1400-1900
Brand
Other brand
Material
Gold-plated metal
Condition
Good condition, used with some signs of wear
Size
One size
Estimated period
1850-1900
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