18th Century Green Shagreen and Silver Eyeglass Case with Monogram

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18th Century Green Shagreen and Silver Eyeglass Case with Monogram

England or France, circa 1760–1780
Dimensions: 5" H × 2.5" … Read more 18th Century Green Shagreen and Silver Eyeglass Case with Monogram

England or France, circa 1760–1780
Dimensions: 5" H × 2.5" W × 0.5" D
Interior measures 3"d x 1.25 w

A refined Georgian-period eyeglass case, crafted in dyed green shagreen (ray skin) with unmarked silver mounts. The domed lid opens on a hand-worked silver hinge, reinforced with triple-banded mounts, and closes securely with a discreet clasp. The front of the case bears a small engraved silver cartouche with the flowing monogram “MD” in 18th-century cursive script, a personal touch that underscores the luxury and exclusivity of such objects.

Shagreen was a prized exotic material imported into Europe from Asia in the 18th century, admired for its distinctive granular surface and durability. When dyed in rich shades of green, it became a favored covering for luxury personal objects—étuis, instrument cases, and spectacle holders—carried by both ladies and gentlemen of fashion. Cases of this type were designed to protect folding or round-lensed spectacles, which were fragile and costly accessories at the time.

The unmarked silverwork suggests either English or French production, as small personal articles often escaped assay marks. The elegant proportions, craftsmanship, and use of shagreen place this example in the mid- to late Georgian period, circa 1760–1780.

Condition: Good antique condition with minor wear to the shagreen consistent with age and use; hinge sound, silver mounts with a pleasing patina. Monogram crisp.

Comparable Examples: Related shagreen and silver cases are held in the collections of the Victoria & Albert Museum and the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, Paris. See less