Vintage Mother Of Pearl Opera Glasses

Mother of Pearl Opera Glasses – Shibayama Style with Bird Motif

Step into the elegance of a bygone era with this exquisite pair of vintage opera glasses, adorned with mother of pearl inlay and refined nature motifs featuring peacocks in the Shibayama style. These handheld antique binoculars are signed Verres Supérieurs, reflecting their superior French craftsmanship. A beautiful fusion of art and utility, they were once an essential accessory for the discerning theatergoer.

• Material: Mother of pearl, brass, enamel

• Style: Shibayama-style peacock bird motif

• Marking: "Verres Supérieurs"

• Measurements: Length 4.3" (11 cm), Width 2.8" (7 cm), Depth 1.75" (4.5 cm)

A Brief History of Opera Glasses

Opera glasses, also known as theater binoculars, became popular in the 18th and 19th centuries when attending the opera or theater was a grand social affair. Crafted to be both elegant and functional, these small binoculars were designed to allow patrons to view performers more clearly from afar—without disturbing those around them.

Wealthy opera-goers often commissioned bespoke pieces adorned with materials such as mother of pearl, enamel, silver, or gold, transforming practical instruments into miniature works of art. French makers in particular—such as Lemaire, Chevalier, and others—led the market in luxurious craftsmanship, often engraving their lenses with "Verres Supérieurs," meaning "superior glass."

Today, vintage opera glasses are sought after by collectors and design enthusiasts for their delicate aesthetic, intricate workmanship, and glimpse into the refined tastes of another era.

Available now at DSF Antique Jewelry

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