Antique C.D. Peacock Mother of Pearl Opera Glasses

Emerging on the fashionable social scene in the early 1700s in the form of a single, long, collapsible telescope, the early "Opera Glass" was often bedazzled, painted or veneered for a refined appearance befitting the opulent opera houses and theaters of the day. This design remained largely unchanged for the next century until 1823 when the first binocular opera and theater viewing glasses began to appear in Vienna. 

Two years later in Paris, Jacques Lemiere improved on this dual telescope design, creating a clever center focus wheel. This allowed the focusing of both telescopes together and the glasses grew in popularity thanks to the new ease of use and the superior view they bestowed for patrons to view not only the stage, but one another. 

Found at market, this pair of breathtaking Antique Mother of Pearl Opera Glasses was produced by Lemiere for luxury Chicago jeweler, C.D. Peacock. Complete with Lemiere's signature focus wheel and the company's charmingly French bee logo marked on the right eye cup, these glasses are sure to have been very much at home at the theatre. Magnificently covered in lustrous nacre, more commonly known as mother-of-pearl, the luminescent layer of shell lends a grand opulence that is truly captivating.

The barrels and eye cups have also been inlaid with mother of pearl, expertly cut to adorn each section while a dramatic central telescoping handle ensures ease of use and viewing at the perfect height. Labeled with identifying marks from both C.D. Peacock and Lemiere FI, this particular pair of glasses carries an additional bespoke engraving, identifying 'Julia F. Stein' as the lucky owner and the year '1899'. The ultimate personal accessory, perhaps presented on the occasion of a debut or grand tour, this romantic find promises to become an elegant addition to your collection.

Strictly one of a kind and subject to prior sale. In very good working condition. 6"L - 9.5" when extended x 3.75"W x 2.25".