Opera glasses or Pocket spyglass
This antique item is a set of brass folding binoculars, often referred to as opera glasses or a pocket spyglass, designed for portability and ease of carrying. Examples such as the “Kelvin & Hughes London 1917 Pocket Folding Binocular” and those by “R & J Beck London 1857” highlight the rich history of such instruments used for various purposes. They are a testament to early 20th-century optical technology and craftsmanship, showcasing intricate brass construction and a collapsible design that was innovative for its time, allowing for compact storage and easy transport.
This cultural artifact reflects leisure and social habits, where such binoculars were commonly used for viewing performances at operas and theaters, as well as for activities like birdwatching or observing distant scenery during travels. With references to “Nautical” and “Spyglass,” these instruments may also have served practical purposes on ships or during explorations, aiding long-distance observation. They demonstrate the design and materials popular for personal viewing devices during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
