Antique j.e. Caldwell Petite Mother of Pearl Opera Glasses Pocket Size Gt French Mark c.1900

Details

Description

Up for sale is a stunning and uniquely compact pair of antique Turn-of-the-Century opera glasses, retailed by the renowned luxury … Read more Up for sale is a stunning and uniquely compact pair of antique Turn-of-the-Century opera glasses, retailed by the renowned luxury jeweler J.E. Caldwell & Co.
This particular pair is exceptionally desirable due to its rare, petite size. Measuring a mere 3 inches across, this ultra-portable "pocket or purse size" model was designed for elite theatergoers to easily slip into a small evening clutch.
Crafted with genuine iridescent mother-of-pearl paneled barrels and a matching central focusing wheel, these elegant theatre glasses feature a solid brass frame. The bridge is clearly stamped with "Made in France" alongside a tiny, authentic "GT" manufacturer's maker's mark inside a rectangular cartouche—verifying its specific historic French workshop origin. The eyepiece is elegantly engraved with the prestigious "J.E. Caldwell & Co." retailer mark.
Perfect for collectors of antique optics, theater enthusiasts, or as a sophisticated display piece.
Item Specifics
Brand / Retailer: J.E. Caldwell & Co. (Philadelphia)
Manufacturer Mark: "GT" French Workshop Maker's Mark
Country of Manufacture: France
Estimated Era: Late 1800s to Early 1900s (Circa 1890–1910)
Size Category: Petite / Compact / Pocket-Sized
Materials: Mother of Pearl (Nacre), Brass, Glass Lenses
Dimensions
Width: 3 inches (across the objective lenses)
Height (Collapsed): Approximately 3 inches
Height (Fully Extended): 4 inches See less