Antique Folding Opera Glasses in Leather Travel Case An unusual and highly portable pair of folding opera glasses dating from the early 20th century, designed to collapse neatly into their original leather-covered travel case. Combining practicality with elegant period design, the compact form allowed theatre-goers and travellers to carry optical instruments discreetly in a pocket or handbag. Constructed with a black lacquered metal body and nickel-plated mounts, the glasses feature an ingenious folding mechanism housed within a fitted leather case. A side-mounted focusing wheel allows adjustment while in use, and the original case forms an integral part of the design, opening to reveal the optical assembly within. Compact folding opera glasses of this type were popular during the first decades of the 20th century and are today appreciated for their inventive engineering, Art Deco-era aesthetics and collectable appeal. The piece retains its original leather-covered case and folding mechanism. The leather remains supple and displays an attractive aged patina. The interior black lacquered finish shows areas of age-related paint loss and wear, consistent with use. Minor surface wear, light abrasions and oxidation are present. The optics remain in place and the focusing mechanism is functional.