Observation binoculars - 1850-1900 - France

DESCRIPTION: 19th Century French Opera Glasses – Exceptional Collector's Item

Superb Victorian opera glasses (binoculars), most likely made in Paris between 1860 and 1885, bearing the inscription engraved on the lens ring: "LUGETTE PAR INVENTION ET PERFECTIONNEMENT" (Eyeglass by Invention and Improvement), a characteristic phrase of renowned Parisian opticians of this period.

Detailed Description: The optical tubes are made of blackened metal, adorned with remarkably fine gold damascene decoration: interlaced geometric motifs (medallions, crosses, stylized foliage) executed by hand with goldsmith-like precision. The central focusing wheel is also decorated in the same style. The blackened metal handle (lorgnon) features inlaid gold decoration depicting a floral bouquet with ribbon and shell fan—typical of the Second Empire/early Belle Époque style. The mount is made of gilded brass, with grooved finishing rings and brass eyepiece and objective lens rims. The binoculars are functional: the focusing mechanism works.

Technical specifications: Weight: 137 g Objective lens diameter (stage side): 3.2 cm Eyepiece diameter (eye side): 3.0 cm Overall width: 11 cm Extended length: 6 cm | Collapsed length: 4.5 cm Handpiece length: 11 cm

Condition: Very good overall condition considering the age of the piece (approximately 140–160 years).

Please note: Some visible dents on the grip arm (see photos) A nearly imperceptible crack on the outer part of the left tube (opposite the arm), visible only upon close inspection — does not affect operation Slight wear to the damascened decoration on the central knob, consistent with its age Light green patina (oxidation of the brass) on the lens rings — a patina of authenticity