Opera glasses are a miniature version of binoculars, that were used when observing opera and theatre performances from a distance. Opera glasses were first advertised in London around the 1730's. However, they were monocular; meaning they only were made for one eye at a time.
Opera glasses were ornately decorated with pearl and precious gems, and were often made of brass. The first paid if binocular Opera glasses were brought to light in the 1820's in Italy.
Opera glasses were quite sophisticated for their time, and the user of these glasses could extend each eyepiece to get a better view of the performance. In Paris a few years later, a wheel was created in the middle of both eyepieces so that one could focus simultaneously.
|
|
|
In the mid 1800's, opera glasses had become a huge fashion accessory, owned by the rich and famous, who had them decorated in pearl, precious gems and colored enamel. A lot of opera glasses were made in France and Austria, and even migrated into parts of Russia, where the upper-class considered them a highly sought-after ornament. Most opera glasses towards the middle and end of the 19th century had small, delicate handles as well, so that you needed only your fingers on one hand to hold them in place.
If you have items like these for sale, you may advertise them on this page.
If you know additional helpful facts on this subject, contact us!
Go back to Glossary Main Page.
|
