Pair of Eye Glasses c. 19th century

These eyeglasses, of unknown origin, were skillfully crafted from metal and glass. Notice the exquisite metalwork, with its carefully shaped rims and slender arms. The hinge mechanisms, functional and delicate, evidence the maker's technical expertise, indicative of a highly skilled artisan. The smooth, clear glass lenses contrast with the cool, hard metal, an interesting interplay of materials. It's easy to overlook objects like these, but think about the labor involved in the production process. From the mining and smelting of the metal to the grinding and polishing of the lenses, many hands were likely involved in the creation of these spectacles, speaking to a complex web of social and economic relationships. By considering the material, making, and context, we can appreciate the value and wider relevance of these everyday objects, and challenge the distinctions between fine art and craft.