From my longtime collections: RARE fine “BODSON Opt. du DUC D’ORLEANS PALAIS ROYAL, 177” is the embossment encircling the eyepieces on this stunning pair of opera glasses. Still in their original case, the set dates late 1700s to earliest 1800s. The notation refers to Louis-Philippe-Joseph, Duc d'Orléans who was a Bourbon prince who became a supporter of popular democracy during the Revolution of 1789, and helps to date the firm and the opera glasses. Very high quality, they have survived well within the wood case, which remains with it as shown. Smooth operating, and all 4 convex polished lenses are complete and in place, though it would do well to have the set taken apart to clean the interior of each lens to have a pristine clarity of view for use. Full measurements noted on photos.
Very good to excellent condition for age and type, no hairlines or chips or cracks to the shell barrel covers, no damage to the mechanism or wheel. Lenses are undamaged, but they would benefit from removal and interior cleaning of the highly polished glass. The case shows age, and is made of thin wood with covering. Some abrasions visible to outer case. Interior lining is original and shows age. Superb set, the clasp on case is not engaging, needs the bar of the clasp, but clasp is in place.
IMPORTANT NOTE regarding antique tortoise shell or ivory: We are great supporters of protection for endangered species in our modern world. We never buy or sell anything 100 years or newer; we donate to anti-poaching organizations; we don't hunt; we conserve in ways that impact global warming (we're totally solar at home), knowing those measures also protect the animals in the wild today. We also recognize the vast cultural history we preserve with our care and reverence for these antique objects, and agree with CITES that objects over 100 years of age have nothing whatsoever to do with species depletion in our current world.
Our offering exceeds the age limitation of "more than 100 years of age", and is well within the exemption for CITES regulation. If imported, met the CITES regulation. This item will be handled and shipped from our Utah business, and is not available for shipment internationally, nor within the USA to California, NY, Nevada, Hawaii, New Jersey, Oregon, Washington if it contains ivory, sorry. Please see our small print for more details.
