Amazing late 1900's bone Lourdes souvenir binoculars with Stanhope lens on a vintage 9ct gold rolled chain.

These type of miniature binoculars were made for the Victorian tourist industry with scenes from cities and tourist destinations visible through the lens. The Lourdes images are still very clear on these binoculars and show several views including the Pic Du Jer, the funicular railway for the mountain above Lourdes. This opened in 1900 thus dating this souvenir most probably between 1900 and 1914. This is a fantastic example of an Edwardian religious and travel souvenir.

Stanhopes or ‘stanho-scopes’, named after the 3rd Earl Stanhope, are a small type of glass lens that magnifies using convex glass. Rene Dagron (b.1817 - d.1900), a French inventor and photographer, refined the shape to a cylindrical form, and applied small images to the ends of a lense so that the viewer could see a small magnified projection of the image. Sometimes these were bible verses or scene hidden within carved rosaries, scenic views of cities in binoculars or pens, and the occasional racy scene of a lady in a state of undress. Stanhopes are often found in pens, pencils, or needle cases, typically cased in carved bone.

The binoculars measure 2.5cm x 2cm.

The chain measures 4cm and is stamped 1/1 9ct on the clasp.

This unique piece of jewellery may have signs of wear due to its history. It is beautifully imperfect and should be treated with love and care. This amazing antique object is in great condition considering its age. 

All Vonk Jewellery is presented in a gift box and pouch with luxe ribbon. If you would like a gift message included please message me at checkout.