Relics of the American West: 1850-1920
Lot 2193:
Description
A fascinating piece of 19th-century eyewear, these antique spectacles feature striking, deep cobalt blue glass lenses set in a delicate, dark metal wire frame. While visually identical to standard Victorian “railroad spectacles” used to shield the eyes from sun and coal smoke, lenses of this specific tint were also famously utilized by historical card sharps as “Luminous Readers” to spot hidden ink markings on the backs of playing cards. The frame features classic sliding or adjustable straight temple arms typical of the mid-to-late 1800s. Included is an authentic, period-correct metal protective case with a dark plush velvet interior lining. The spectacles show an aged patina with minor oxidation to the wire frame and light surface wear on the lenses, while the case exhibits heavy rusting and age-related wear to the exterior, though the interior remains largely intact. H 2″, W 5″, D 5″. Please see photos for condition.
Share this lot:
