Spectacles - Lorgnette - Single Floral gilt with finger ringFloral decorationglasses, spectacles, lorgnette

Lorgnette were a pair of spectacles with a handle, used to hold them in place, rather than fitting over the ears or nose. The name derives from the French lorgner, meaning to take a sidelong look. The lens were often just magnifiers although they later evolved to include prescription lenses. They became widely used in the 19th century and were popular in the Victorian Era.This item is from Raper Collection donated to the Wodonga Historical Society by Mrs. Jean Raper. A lorgnette or pair of hand-held brass-rimmed spectacles.lorgnette, women's spectacles

This pretty folding silver lorgnette appears European in styling and may be French. The extensive scratching on the lenses indicates many years of use. This form of lorgnette was popular in the mid to late nineteenth century.This lorgnette is significant to the collection as one of the most ornate.Silver folding short handled lorgnette with pivoted bridge and ornamental loop handle. Round convex lenses badly scratched.lenses, glasses, lorgnette, folding spectacles

Purchased 27 Sept 1999 from Thomas Tyler and associates, Collins Street Melbourne. Prior owner unknown. Over 100 years old.Small hand held lorgnette with two lenses set in silver chased circular frames, the frames are hinged and swing out of a tortoiseshell case.personal effects, seeing aids

A lorgnette, in essence, consists of a handle-mounted pair of spectacles. Lorgnettes, which preceded modern opera binoculars, were frequently seen at both theaters and operas during the 19th century. The term "lorgnette" is derived from the French word "lorgner," which means to discreetly observe or gaze. Prior to the 17th century, optical devices were mainly associated with men, however the creation of the lorgnette marked a significant shift as women started to play a more prominent role in the realm of eyewear. The lorgnette piqued women's curiosity and led to the development of various new designs, such as the "jealousy lorgnette." Furthermore, the lorgnette evolved beyond its initial function as a theater or opera accessory and transformed into a practical daily accessory. Initial versions of the lorgnette featured a handle without any joints. Subsequent iterations introduced a hinged handle, and by the 19th century, a spring mechanism was incorporated which enabled the lenses to fold neatly inside the handle, which also doubled as a protective case.The Burke Museum's collection of historical artifacts illuminates Beechworth's past by showcasing the town's social, cultural, and economic dimensions, contributing to a richer understanding of its social history.A pair of spectacles with a decorative handle attached.burke museum, social history, glasses, opera