c.1900–1920 – English 10ct Rolled Gold Pince-Nez Spectacles
An elegant pair of Edwardian 10ct rolled gold pince-nez spectacles, complete with their original fitted case and advertising cleaning cloth from London opticians S. Marchant Ltd.
Pince-nez spectacles became one of the most recognisable forms of eyewear during the late Victorian and Edwardian periods. Rather than using side arms that rested over the ears, they were held in place by a spring bridge that gently gripped the wearer's nose. This style was popular with both men and women from the late 19th century until the 1920s, before conventional side-arm spectacles became the standard.
This example is manufactured from 10ct rolled gold, a durable gold-filled material commonly used for quality spectacles of the period. The frame is stamped "M. England", indicating manufacture in England. While the exact maker remains unidentified, the style, construction and materials strongly suggest production during the Edwardian era, approximately 1900–1920.
Included with the spectacles is their original fitted hard case and an advertising polishing cloth for S. Marchant Ltd., 170–172 Mile End Road, London E.1. The cloth advertises lens repairs and adjustments, providing an interesting piece of early 20th-century optical history.
The spectacles remain in excellent preserved condition with their spring mechanism intact, clear lenses and original accessories. Complete sets including the case and advertising cloth are becoming increasingly desirable to collectors of medical antiques, optical instruments and Edwardian personal accessories.
Historical Notes
Rolled gold became a popular material forquality spectacle frames during the late 1800s because it offered theappearance of solid gold while being considerably more affordable and durable.
Pince-nez frames reached peak popularity between approximately 1890 and 1915,worn by professionals, academics, doctors and fashionable society alike. Theirpopularity gradually declined during the 1920s as lightweight side-armspectacles became more comfortable and secure.
The inclusion of the original advertising cloth adds valuable provenance,helping date the ensemble to the early twentieth century and linking it to anidentifiable London optician.
Features
Measurements: Case - 120 mm x 50 mm x 20, Spectacles - 100 mm x 30 mm x 10 mm
Condition: Excellent
Markings: S. Marchant Ltd., 170–172 Mile End Road, London E.1.
Date Note: Date is an estimate based on available researchand stylistic features. If you have additional information, please contact usto help update our records.
Made from the following materials
Metal has played a significant role in the history of dolls and toys, with materials like cast iron, tin, and brass being used for centuries to create durable and appealing playthings. Each type of metal has distinct characteristics that have influenced its application in the toy industry, leading to a variety of designs and styles.
Cast Iron
Cast iron was one of the first metals used in toy manufacturing, particularly during the 19th century. Its strength and durability made it ideal for creating toys that could withstand the rigors of play. Cast iron toys were often made using molds, allowing for mass production and the creation of intricate designs. Popular cast iron toys included figurines, toy cars, and trains, many of which featured detailed craftsmanship and decorative paintwork. These toys were not only popular with children but also became collectible items over time, cherished for their historical significance and nostalgic appeal.
Tin
Tin, often used in the form of tinplate, became a favored material for toy manufacturing in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Tin toys were lightweight, affordable, and could be produced in large quantities, making them accessible to a wide audience. Tinplate was often stamped or lithographed with colorful designs, bringing characters and scenes to life. Classic examples of tin toys include wind-up cars, robots, and playful animals, many of which featured moving parts that delighted children. Tin toys remain popular among collectors today, valued for their charm and the artistry involved in their design.
Brass
Brass, an alloy of copper and zinc, has been used in toy making for its attractive appearance and durability. It is particularly well-suited for creating smaller components, such as gears and mechanisms in wind-up toys. The shiny, golden hue of brass gives toys a sense of elegance and sophistication, often seen in decorative pieces and collectibles. While brass dolls are less common than those made from other materials, some artisans have crafted beautiful dolls with brass accents, adding a touch of luxury to their designs.
Throughout history, the use of metal in dolls and toys has allowed for a diverse range of creations, each reflecting the technological advancements and artistic trends of their time. The durability of metal ensures that many of these toys have stood the test of time, allowing them to be enjoyed by new generations of children and collectors alike.
At our museum, we celebrate the legacy of metal dolls and toys, highlighting their role in the evolution of play and the craftsmanship that goes into creating these timeless treasures. From the strength of cast iron to the whimsical designs of tin and the elegance of brass, these materials tell a rich story of creativity and innovation in the world of toys.
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