Description
1910 AntiqueKetchum & McDougall Lorgnette and Fob Pin
A nice gold metal lorgnette (circa 1910) with perfect mechanism and a good crisp action. The surface gilt is in good vintage condition and comes complete with a Ketcham & McDougall Fob Pin Vintage Ketcham & McDougall, 1910 retractable Ebony Chatelaine Style Fob Pin, “Ketchall” Interesting, vintage, Ketcham and McDougall retractable chatelaine style retractable pin. These were used to hold small pens or eyeware.
The finish is in good vintage condition but some raised marks on one edge. The chain still retracts perfectly. Marked “Ketcham & McDougall”, New York” The lorgnette measures 5 x 1 ¾ when closed, the fob measures one inch in diameter and the cost for the set is £95
A lorgnette (/lɔːˈnjɛt/) is a pair of spectacles with a handle, used to hold them in place, rather than fitting over the ears or nose. The word “lorgnette” is derived from the French lorgner, to take a sidelong look at, and Middle French, from lorgne, squinting.
They were invented by Englishman George Adams. The lorgnette was usually used as a piece of jewelry, rather than to enhance vision. Fashionable ladies usually preferred them to spectacles. These were very popular at masquerade parties and used often at the opera (becoming the model for today’s opera glasses).
They were worn popularly in the 19th century.
