Spectacles

Spectacles

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Description
In the nineteenth century this type of eyewear was referred to as eye protectors or railroad glasses. They have four colored lenses and were worn to help protect weak eyes from bright light, dust, and the wind when out riding or driving. They have steel frames with double lenses (sometimes referred to as Double-D lenses) and are tinted different shades of blue and blue-green. Lenses could be found in shades of blue, green, amber, and gray. The bows are sliding extension temples terminating in a teardrop-shaped fenestration. This pair of eyeglasses date from about 1850.
Location
Currently not on view
Object Name
Spectacles
Other Terms
Spectacles; Eyeglasses
date made
ca 1850
Physical Description
steel (overall material)
glass (overall material)
Measurements
extended: 2.9 cm x 15 cm x 14.5 cm; 1 1/8 in x 5 7/8 in x 5 11/16 in
ID Number
MG.317912.064
accession number
317912
catalog number
317912.064
Credit Line
Gift of Robert S. Moody
subject
Ophthalmology
Education
Ophthalmology
See more items in
Medicine and Science: Medicine
Health & Medicine
Clothing & Accessories
Artifact Walls exhibit
Data Source
National Museum of American History
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