Collection Highlights
Kerchief
Date:
1776-1777
Object Number:
1952.63
Medium:
Linen
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Museum Collections
Luce Center
Spectacles and case
Object Number:
INV.7524a-c
Date:
1790-1800
Medium:
Steel, horn, glass; pasteboard
Dimensions:
Case: 1/2 x 5 x 1 1/2 in. ( 1.3 x 12.7 x 3.8 cm )
Overall (spectacles closed): 1 1/2 x 4 3/4 x 3/4 in. (3.8 x 12.1 x
Marks:
written: on tag with object: "MARGUERITE WEIDENMAN/MAR. 13 1947"
Description:
"Martin's Margins" spectacles with steel frames; circular lenses with margin of horn around perimeter; "C" bridge and double-hinged (Ayscough type) temples with elongated loops at ends (left temple missing from second hinge to end). Two-piece oval pasteboard case with pointed ends; embossed decoration of small diamonds.
Gallery Label:
Widely popular around 1790 was the invention of London optician Benjamin Martin. His "Martin's Margins" featured circular silver frames with an inset "margin" of horn to partially obstruct the aperture so that the eyes were not overloaded with light.
Credit Line:
Gift of Marguerite Weidenman, 1947
Due to ongoing research, information about this object is subject to change.
