This Art Nouveau gold lorgnette likely originates from the United States during the first 20 years of the 20th Century. Crafted from 14 karat yellow gold the lorgnette is extremely simple in its design and is virtually void of ornamentation with the exception of some fine scrollwork around the lens casing. The lenses that are currently fitted are likely original, and whilst in-tact do have some abrasions to the surface of the glass. The piece is marked internally for 14 karat gold and also has a makers mark in the form of a Maltese cross inside a circle, which is currently unidentified. In good condition the piece only has some minor dents to the gold which are commensurate with age. Once a very frequently used object, this wondrous lorgnette would be a beautiful pendant on a long chain for someone wanting a piece of gold antique jewellery but with a point of difference.
Marked - '14K' along with unidentified makers mark
Measures - 11.25cm L (excluding bale) x 2.75cm W
Total weight of piece - 28.6 grams
N.B. In images one and three the piece appears to have a large dent in the handle and in the lens casing - these are reflections only and do not accurately depict the surface of the metal.