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Royal Exchange of London Opera Glass - early 1800s
Royal Exchange of London Opera Glass - early 1800s
Royal Exchange of London Opera Glass - early 1800s


 
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Our Price: $495.00
Sale Price: $360.00



Product Code: VT219
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Description
 
This ultra-rare opera glass was made by Joseph Smith whose business was located in the Royal Exchange of London. His shop operated from 1811 - 1825 in the Exchange. This gorgeous brass working opera glass features a carved ivory inlay with a telescoping design that compacts into just 1.5". The eye is engraved J. Smith / Royal Exchange London. The opera glass still works which is amazing for being 200 years old.

The Royal Exchange London was founded in 1571 as a center of commerce in London and was officially opened by Queen Elizabeth I. The Royal Exchange was home home to Lloyd's of London Insurance for over 150 years. It is also the location for royal proclamations such as the dissolution of parliament and following the death and confirmation of a new Monarch.

The Exchange consisted of a trading floor and shops and burned in the Great Fire of London in 1666. The new building only sold goods until the 17th century and stockbrokers were not allowed due to their poor manners and offensive behavior. They mainly worked at the famed Jonathan's Coffee-House. The London International Financial Futures Exchange used the courtyard as their trading floor for a brief time until most trading activity moved to the Royal Exchange.

Antique Opera Glass by Joseph Smith of the Royal Exchange of London
  • Made by Joseph Smith
  • Brass with carved ivory inlay; glass lenses
  • Weight 4.5 oz
  • Age: 1811 - 1825
  • 4.25" extended; 1.5 closed; 1.75" diameter
  • Condition: VG; as pictured