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What was the first documented use of magnifying glasses?
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The use of magnifying glasses is linked as far back as the ancient Egyptians. In Egypt, they used crystals or other shiny stones to view small objects better. However, the first magnifying glass crafted for scientific purposes is believed to be designed by Roger Bacon, an English philosopher during the 13th century. Browse a wide selection of vintage magnifying glasses on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
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Shop for Antique Magnifying Glasses on 1stDibs
Victorian 14k Repoussé Magnifying Glass
Located in Narberth, PA
A simply lovely and unusual magnifying glass from the Victorian (ca1880s) era! Crafted in 14k
Category
Antique 1880s Victorian Desk Accessories
Materials
Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Magnifying Glass Seashell Handle
Located in New York, NY
A metal magnifying glass with seashell handle, circa early to mid-20th century. Piece has a metal
Category
Early 20th Century Victorian Letter Openers
Materials
Metal
Edwardian Sterling Silver and Blue Guilloche Enamel-Mounted Magnifying Glass
By George Hope
Located in New York, NY
Large, Edwardian, sterling silver and blue guilloche enamel-mounted magnifying glass, Birmingham
Category
Antique Early 1900s English Edwardian Sterling Silver
Materials
Metal, Sterling Silver, Enamel
Edwardian Sterling Silver and Blue Guilloche Enamel-Mounted Magnifying Glass
By Allen
Darwin Silver 1
Located in New York, NY
Edwardian Period, sterling Silver and blue guilloche enamel-mounted magnifying glass, Sheffield
Category
Antique Early 1900s English Edwardian Sterling Silver
Materials
Sterling Silver, Enamel, Metal
English Victorian Boar
s Tooth Magnifying Glass
Located in Queens, NY
English Victorian silver-plate magnifying glass with a boar's tooth handle (silver marking/chip to
Category
Antique Late 19th Century British Victorian More Desk Accessories
Materials
Bone
Antique Chinese Export Carved Bone
Sterling Silver Magnifying Glass
Located in Atlanta, GA
A very fine antique chinese export magnifying glass. The handle constructed from bone and heavily
Category
Antique 19th Century Sterling Silver
Materials
Sterling Silver
