14K Gold 'Riding Temple' Specs in Papier Mache Inlaid Case - Civil War Era

Antiques : Accessories : 14k Victorian Spectacles, Eye Glasses, Cases

 

These wonderful specs are oval in shape and measure 4.25" across. Sometimes called 'Windsors' they are solid 14K wire frames with wide spring gold arms measuring 5" long and referred to as "riding temples".

Very comfortable to wear, the style is not unlike those that John Lennon wore.

In remarkably fine condition, these could also make fabulous readers filled with your own prescription.

The accompanying case is slim, lined in purple velvet of the day - with a flip down back. Constructed of what I think is black lacquered papier mache inlaid with an exquisite spray of Abalone and Mother of Pearl flora.

The specs are marked to the Johnston Optical Company. Marked and tested to 14K, they are pink gold dating to 1850-1880.

A wonderful find!

Item ID: R1321