Spectacles

Periodca. 1835 - 1880

MediumBrass, green glass

Dimensions4.5 in. (11.4 cm)

ClassificationsVision Devices

Credit LineGift of Miss Mary Rue, 1932

Object number133

DescriptionA pair of eyeglasses (spectacles) comprised of a brass frame, with two rectangular panels of green-tinted glass with slightly rounded corners on either side of a widely-spaced nosepiece. Wide, flat hinges connect to thin flexible brass ear wires. The ear wires are hinged towards the tips, ending in fine wire loops.
Curatorial RemarksThe first eyeglasses - transparent panels ground to a specific thickness and curve, set into a frame - are believed to have been introduced sometime in the 1300s. Although the Italian Salvino D'Armate has been traditionally credited with the invention of eyeglasses, this has been called into doubt. What is true, however, is that the development of eyeglasses most likely originated from monasteries in the Medieval time period. The creation of illuminated manuscripts demanded clear, sharp sight, and early glass panels set into wooden or metal frames were developed to assist in this work. Scientific work on lenses themselves for microscopes, telescopes, and other inventions requiring magnification also went hand-in-hand with the development of corrective eyewear. The earliest eyeglasses were constructed with rock quartz, ground and polished to provide magnification for the wearer. Early frames were uncomfortable and hand to be held in one hand up to the eyes. In the early 1700s the lens frame with a shaped nosepiece and side wires was introduced in Great Britain. Although eyes, eyesight, and eye diseases appear in cultures as far back as ancient Egypt, the 19th century was considered the golden age of opthamologic developments, with a better understanding of the vision and refinement in corrective lenses. Industrialization also helped make eyeglasses somewhat more affordable for the general public.NotesThis pair of eyeglasses dates between 1860 and 1880. The lenses are tinted green, a color most often used as a protection against light levels and eye strain. In an age before incandescent lighting, many people suffered some form of eye strain. Reading, sewing, and many crafts and activities were done either by natural light or by candles or lanterns, often resulting in vision issues. These spectacles were used by a member of the Rue family of Freehold sometime in the second half of the 19th century.

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