SOLD Antique Stanhope Bone Souvenir Binocular Necklace

Amazing late 1900's bone souvenir binoculars with Stanhope lens. I have added a pearl charm drop and a heavily gold plated sterling silver chain to create a unique necklace.

This type of miniature binoculars were made for the Victorian tourist industry with scenes from cities and tourist destinations visible through the lens. The writing and images on this example has faded however the lens are still intact and if held up to the light you can still see faint images.

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 is adjustable measuring 40, 42 and 45cm. 

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.