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WOW! PRISTINE ANTIQUE FRENCH ENAMEL OPERA GLASSES, CASE
We have not had such a fine pair of enameled opera glasses in ages, and when you look at this set, you're sure to agree you have also not seen a set so beautiful and fun as this one in ages, either. The flirtation of blindfolded maiden being 'gamed' by her beau is theme on each of the lense barrels, and in each one, the enamel is flawless. No chips, cracks, hairlines, nothing to diminish the fun, or your own enjoyment in using this set. These are kiln-fired enamel on copper barrel, of couse - that excruciatingly painstaking process about which I've often written. Not just painted, these works of art are the result of the work of a master enamelist, believe me. I've done this type of work as an art student, and it's impossible! You're painting on all manner of mauve/grey/blue muddy globs that are the suspended enamel powders that will ultimately melt in kiln-firing to become the perfectly shaded and detailed images you now see. But in working this material, nothing looks like anything and you really are working in shades of mud, more or less, layering one on another more from memory than anything since they don't appear to be much of anything until the kiln melts the powders into the glassine or porcelain looking finished product. Often mistaken for fine porcelain, the work is far more arduous, difficult. These are reasons why, apart from the immediate beauty of the object, the old French and Viennese enamels hold us all rapt in awe and appreciation for the art they truly are. And in this pair, no finer example.
Very good to excellent condition, just as you can see. Not a thing wrong with either enameled barrel, the lenses are clear and you can use these with clear crisp resulting view as well as superb panache! The lense eyepieces are also in fine condition. The set comes in the original collapsible velvet case, and the maker noted on mother of pearl eyepieces and on the case is is "Raphael Opticien, 7, reu Cannebiere, Marseille". None finer!
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Return Policy:
We always honor a 3-day return on our items, and guarantee them to be as described. Money back, less shipping costs, which are not refundable, so ask questions if necessary. We're easy to deal with.Shipping and Handling Policy:
Our shipping days are Tuesday and Friday, paid items will be shipped on the first shipping day after payment is recieved (except when special circumstances exist). We prefer to use USPS whenever possible, and require all packages to be insured. If you prefer another method of shipment, please mention it. We charge only actual expense of shipment/insurance, except in the case of larger items which must have special wood crates built. Wood crate charge, when applicable, is a flat $35.00 in addition to actual postage & insurance charges. Other Information:
8.75% sales tax applicable as of April 1st, 2009 for shipments & sales within the state of California, no exceptions. If you are within CA and are a dealer buying for resale, you must provide us your active resale certificate # and acknowledgment of intent to resell or we will have to collect sales tax. No exceptions. Auction Payment Methods:
Paypal: E-Check, Visa, Mastercard, etc.. Credit card payment by online service only, no direct processing.
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