Antique lorgnette pince-nez glasses

Antique Lorgnette Pince-Nez – Early Celluloid Handle with Loop
 
Imagine someone lifting this lorgnette during a theatre evening long ago — the orchestra settling, velvet curtains opening, programs rustling quietly in the audience. A single smooth gesture, a flick of the wrist, and these round lenses were brought up to the eyes to read the cast list, study a performer’s expression, or recognise a familiar silhouette across the dimly lit hall.

The long, slender handle would rest elegantly between the fingers, its warm translucent surface catching a hint of the stage light. And when not in use, the lorgnette hung from a fine chain or ribbon, swaying gently with its wearer’s movements — a graceful accessory as much as a practical one.

It belonged to evenings filled with conversation, velvet seats, candlelit foyers and handwritten invitations. A small ritual of seeing, noticing, paying attention — preserved across time in this delicate old object.

Antique lorgnette-style pince-nez eyeglasses with a long early-plastic handle (likely celluloid), featuring a smooth translucent brown pattern.
The handle ends with a small loop made from the same material, allowing the lorgnette to be worn on a chain or ribbon, attached to clothing, or carried securely as was common in the late 19th and early 20th century.

The hinge opens smoothly and the lorgnette retains its characteristic elongated shape and round lenses.

Good antique condition with age-related wear.
Please note: one lens is broken.
Still suitable for historical display, costume styling, photography props or collectors.

Measurements:
lens diameter - 1,6 x 1,2 inches / 4 x 3 cm
length of the holder 8,4 inches / 21,3 cm