What is an Art Deco lorgnette?

A lorgnette is an optical accessory featuring a pair of spectacles or a single magnifying lens attached to a handle. Popularised in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Art Deco lorgnettes from the 1920s were often crafted from precious metals like platinum and designed to be worn around the neck as decorative jewellery.

What materials were used to construct 1920s lorgnettes?

During the 1920s, high-end lorgnettes were predominantly constructed from platinum or white gold, often set with single-cut or rose-cut diamonds. The lenses were made of polished optical glass, linked together with spring-loaded metal hinges.

How can you identify an authentic Art Deco lorgnette?

Authentic 1920s pieces typically feature hallmarks indicating metal purity, such as platinum marks, alongside geometric handle motifs and millegrain edge detailing. The spring mechanism, hinges, and catch should operate smoothly, holding the lens securely when folded.

How can an antique lorgnette be styled in a modern context?

An antique lorgnette can be worn as a statement pendant on a platinum or white gold chain. Alternatively, it can be displayed inside a glass-topped table display box or framed within a shadow box as part of a curated vintage collection.

How should platinum and diamond lorgnettes be cleaned and maintained?

Clean the metal and diamonds using a soft-bristled brush with mild soap and warm water, taking care not to submerge any delicate mechanical springs. Wipe the optical glass lens with a microfiber cloth and store the piece in a lined box to prevent scratching.

for sale €1,931 $2,096

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Antique Platinum Diamond Lorgnette Art Deco Opera Glasses - C.1920

Name: Antique Platinum Diamond Lorgnette Art Deco Opera Glasses - C.1920
Brand: Antique
SKU: SA1174373
Price: 1650 GBP
Availability: InStock

1900 - 1920

For Sale by Artisan Antiques

Description

We are delighted to offer this stylish late Edwardian/early Art Deco solid platinum lorgnette glasses made c.1920.

The lorgnette will come in a period case (not original fitted) and will be included in this listing.

The overall craftsmanship is splendid and exemplary of Deco work with a fine platinum border with intricate hand-engraved and pierced motifs throughout. The front panel is wonderfully embellished with an array of old cut diamonds which twinkle depending on the angle/lighting and truly complement its overall chic and platinum tone.

A small latch on the side of the handle releases a spring-loaded mechanism, opening up the stacked lenses to reveal two lenses. Not only is the artistry on this piece magnificent but its mechanism is a marvel in itself where form and function intertwine beautifully.

Lorgnettes, derived from the French word "lorgner" (to ogle), were initially corrective eyeglasses introduced in the 18th century, but later on came to be a fashionable accessory and an attractive alternative to spectacles. Ladies could carry such pieces in style with versatility; whether it be on a chatelaine, on a ribbon or perhaps even as a pendant. Historically, upon taking part in games of high society such as theatre or opera, lorgnettes were considered an ideal accoutrement to an outfit whilst also serving as a visual aid to clearly see the action on stage.

Whether it be a wonderful collectable object of vertu or as a fabulous piece of jewellery to be matched with an outfit, this lorgnette presents itself with exceptional style, ideal for a distinguished individual. A wonderful piece of functional and aesthetic antique accessory, perfect as a gift for someone special and a conversation starter in its own right.

The lorgnette is marked in several places with hallmarks and one mark between the lenses "Platinum".

*Please note: all images with other items are for display purposes only; this listing is for the title item only.

Size

Size (cm) L:8.5cm W:4.4cm

Size (inches) L:3.34 W:1.73

Weight: 23.43 grams (0.75 Troy oz) total.

Condition

Great Condition - The lorgnette is in great antique condition, with no major damage or issues. It appears to have been looked after very well with little use and wear for its age. Very slight surface wear and markings on the lens commensurate with age; the decoration remains crisp.

We aim to overemphasise and state these issues to avoid disappointment and thus please rest assured they are not significant nor affect the usage of the items.

Please refer to the photographs to examine the condition in further detail.

Free Shipping

Artisan Antiques offers free global shipping with professional, secure and discreet packaging.

We will always ensure your items are packaged with the utmost care and see the delivery through to the end. In the very rare and unfortunate case of non-delivery/courier loss, you are fully covered with us and we will fully refund you.

*All parcels are insured - please rest assured all shipping liabilities other than import/customs duty are covered by Artisan Antiques.

*Colours of the product may slightly differ from the photos due to different computer screens & lighting conditions*

- Price negotiations may be possible under certain criteria, please contact us via telephone (07578761640) or email (info@artisanantiques.net) -

Declaration

Artisan Antiques has dated this Art Deco Platinum Lorgnette to the 1920s.

Reference Numbers

Sellingantiques Reference

SA1174373

Dealers Notes

We strive to provide inimitable first-class service with your needs and satisfaction as our number one priority.

Description

We are delighted to offer this stylish late Edwardian/early Art Deco solid platinum lorgnette glasses made c.1920.

The lorgnette will come in a period case (not original fitted) and will be included in this listing.

“

The overall craftsmanship is splendid and exemplary of Deco work with a fine platinum border with intricate hand-engraved and pierced motifs throughout.

Artisan Antiques

The front panel is wonderfully embellished with an array of old cut diamonds which twinkle depending on the angle/lighting and truly complement its overall chic and platinum tone.

fig 1. An Art Deco platinum lorgnette featuring a circular folding magnifying glass lens attached to a geometric handle set with small diamonds. — fig 1. Antique Platinum Diamond Lorgnette Art Deco Opera Glasses - C.1920

A small latch on the side of the handle releases a spring-loaded mechanism, opening up the stacked lenses to reveal two lenses. Not only is the artistry on this piece magnificent but its mechanism is a marvel in itself where form and function intertwine beautifully.

fig 2. An Art Deco platinum lorgnette featuring a circular folding magnifying glass lens attached to a geometric handle set with small diamonds. — fig 2. Antique Platinum Diamond Lorgnette Art Deco Opera Glasses - C.1920

Lorgnettes, derived from the French word "lorgner" (to ogle), were initially corrective eyeglasses introduced in the 18th century, but later on came to be a fashionable accessory and an attractive alternative to spectacles. Ladies could carry such pieces in style with versatility; whether it be on a chatelaine, on a ribbon or perhaps even as a pendant. Historically, upon taking part in games of high society such as theatre or opera, lorgnettes were considered an ideal accoutrement to an outfit whilst also serving as a visual aid to clearly see the action on stage.

fig 3. An Art Deco platinum lorgnette featuring a circular folding magnifying glass lens attached to a geometric handle set with small diamonds. — fig 3. Antique Platinum Diamond Lorgnette Art Deco Opera Glasses - C.1920

Whether it be a wonderful collectable object of vertu or as a fabulous piece of jewellery to be matched with an outfit, this lorgnette presents itself with exceptional style, ideal for a distinguished individual. A wonderful piece of functional and aesthetic antique accessory, perfect as a gift for someone special and a conversation starter in its own right.

fig 4. An Art Deco platinum lorgnette featuring a circular folding magnifying glass lens attached to a geometric handle set with small diamonds. — fig 4. Antique Platinum Diamond Lorgnette Art Deco Opera Glasses - C.1920

The lorgnette is marked in several places with hallmarks and one mark between the lenses "Platinum".

Please note: all images with other items are for display purposes only; this listing is for the title item only.

fig 5. An Art Deco platinum lorgnette featuring a circular folding magnifying glass lens attached to a geometric handle set with small diamonds. — fig 5. Antique Platinum Diamond Lorgnette Art Deco Opera Glasses - C.1920

Size

Size (cm) L:8.5cm W:4.4cm

Size (inches) L:3.34 W:1.73

Weight: 23.43 grams (0.75 Troy oz) total.

Condition

Great Condition - The lorgnette is in great antique condition, with no major damage or issues. It appears to have been looked after very well with little use and wear for its age. Very slight surface wear and markings on the lens commensurate with age; the decoration remains crisp.

fig 6. An Art Deco platinum lorgnette featuring a circular folding magnifying glass lens attached to a geometric handle set with small diamonds. — fig 6. Antique Platinum Diamond Lorgnette Art Deco Opera Glasses - C.1920

We aim to overemphasise and state these issues to avoid disappointment and thus please rest assured they are not significant nor affect the usage of the items.

Please refer to the photographs to examine the condition in further detail.

fig 7. An Art Deco platinum lorgnette featuring a circular folding magnifying glass lens attached to a geometric handle set with small diamonds. — fig 7. Antique Platinum Diamond Lorgnette Art Deco Opera Glasses - C.1920

Free Shipping

Artisan Antiques offers free global shipping with professional, secure and discreet packaging.

We will always ensure your items are packaged with the utmost care and see the delivery through to the end. In the very rare and unfortunate case of non-delivery/courier loss, you are fully covered with us and we will fully refund you.