Belle Époque French Opera Glasses | Silvered Brass with Repoussé Birds & Branches | Circa 1880–1900
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Belle Époque French Opera Glasses | Silvered Brass with Repoussé Birds & Branches | Circa 1880–1900
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: France
Material: Silvered brass with repoussé detailing
Period: Circa 1880–1900
Description
This exquisite pair of French opera glasses exemplifies the elegance of Belle Époque craftsmanship. The body is richly decorated in high relief with repoussé imagery of birds perched among fruit-laden branches and curling leaves, embodying the romantic and artistic aesthetics of the late 19th century. Marked “N.B.T. 204–09” beneath the bridge, the glasses reflect the fashionable accessories once carried to the opera, theater, and ballet in Paris and other cultural capitals. The central focusing wheel remains operable, and the detailing preserves its crispness despite age-related patina.
Features
- Silvered brass construction with repoussé birds, branches, and berries
- Twin-barrel design with central focus adjustment
- Marked “N.B.T. 204–09” under lens bridge
- High-relief decoration with naturalistic motifs
- Aged silver finish with light patina
Cultural Significance
Opera glasses during the Belle Époque were both functional and symbolic of refined social standing. Worn or carried by theatergoers, their elaborate decoration served as a statement of taste and sophistication. Nature-inspired designs such as this pair reflect the era’s fascination with poetry, beauty, and the natural world, while also acting as practical instruments for enjoying grand performances.
Condition
Good antique condition with expected wear. Center wheel functional and smooth. Minor optical hazing and surface patina consistent with age and use.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Width: 4.5 in
Height: 4 in
Age (Approximate)
125–145 years old
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: France
Material: Silvered brass with repoussé detailing
Period: Circa 1880–1900
Description
This exquisite pair of French opera glasses exemplifies the elegance of Belle Époque craftsmanship. The body is richly decorated in high relief with repoussé imagery of birds perched among fruit-laden branches and curling leaves, embodying the romantic and artistic aesthetics of the late 19th century. Marked “N.B.T. 204–09” beneath the bridge, the glasses reflect the fashionable accessories once carried to the opera, theater, and ballet in Paris and other cultural capitals. The central focusing wheel remains operable, and the detailing preserves its crispness despite age-related patina.
Features
- Silvered brass construction with repoussé birds, branches, and berries
- Twin-barrel design with central focus adjustment
- Marked “N.B.T. 204–09” under lens bridge
- High-relief decoration with naturalistic motifs
- Aged silver finish with light patina
Cultural Significance
Opera glasses during the Belle Époque were both functional and symbolic of refined social standing. Worn or carried by theatergoers, their elaborate decoration served as a statement of taste and sophistication. Nature-inspired designs such as this pair reflect the era’s fascination with poetry, beauty, and the natural world, while also acting as practical instruments for enjoying grand performances.
Condition
Good antique condition with expected wear. Center wheel functional and smooth. Minor optical hazing and surface patina consistent with age and use.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Width: 4.5 in
Height: 4 in
Age (Approximate)
125–145 years old
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