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Beautiful antique French opera/theater glasses by Lemaire of Paris, dating to approximately the late 19th or early 20th century.
These elegant binoculars feature genuine mother-of-pearl panels around both barrels, with gilt/brass-tone metal construction and matching mother-of-pearl eyepieces. Both eyepieces are clearly marked “LEMAIRE Fᵗ PARIS” and display the characteristic small bee trademarks associated with Lemaire.
The central focusing mechanism operates smoothly and extends and retracts the barrels properly. The optics are present and usable, and the glasses focus as intended.
Included is the fitted black leather carrying case, lined in deep red fabric and shaped specifically to accommodate the opera glasses. The case shows age and exterior wear consistent with an antique of this period, but remains a wonderful part of the original presentation.
Condition: Very good antique condition overall. The mother-of-pearl is exceptionally attractive and appears substantially intact, with beautiful natural iridescence. The metal surfaces retain an attractive aged finish with normal minor wear and patina. The focusing mechanism operates nicely. The leather case shows considerably more age and wear than the glasses themselves, as shown in the photographs.
These have not been aggressively polished or restored; their antique surfaces and patina have been preserved.
A beautiful surviving example of French optical craftsmanship and an appealing collectible for anyone interested in Victorian/Edwardian theater memorabilia, antique optical instruments, French antiques, mother-of-pearl objects, or opera history.
Please examine all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the condition description.
Maker: Lemaire
Marking: LEMAIRE Fᵗ PARIS with bee trademarks
Origin: Paris, France
Approximate date: Late 19th / early 20th century, circa 1900
Materials: Mother-of-pearl and gilt/brass-tone metal
Included: Fitted leather carrying case
Function: Focusing mechanism operates properly
