A cased pair of early 19th century gilt metal,...
A cased pair of early 19th century gilt metal, mother of pearl and enamel opera glasses, circa 1830 by G.C. Dixey
The twin barrels of cylindrical form, with six enamel panels of geometric pattern against a chased reserve. With a carved mother of pearl turning wheel and pivoted handle. Signed to the barrels G&C Dixey, Opticians to the King, No 3 New Bond Street, London’. Within a fitted leather case with purple silk lining, possibly later.
Length extended – 20.5 cm / 8.1 inches
C.W. Dixey & Son was founded in 1777, making glasses for seven successive kings and queens of England, and the royal houses of nine countries. C.W. Dixey & Son started life at 3 New Bond Street in central London. It was founded by William Fraser, who had a reputation for his optical and mathematical instruments, whereupon he secured a royal warrant. Some years later, after the Fraser line died out, it fell into the hands of the Dixey family. It became G&C Dixey in 1824, before the final move to C.W. Dixey & Son in 1860, under Charles Wastell Dixey.
Estimated at £1,200 - £1,600
Estimate
Time, Location
Auction House
A cased pair of early 19th century gilt metal, mother of pearl and enamel opera glasses, circa 1830 by G.C. Dixey
The twin barrels of cylindrical form, with six enamel panels of geometric pattern against a chased reserve. With a carved mother of pearl turning wheel and pivoted handle. Signed to the barrels G&C Dixey, Opticians to the King, No 3 New Bond Street, London’. Within a fitted leather case with purple silk lining, possibly later.
Length extended – 20.5 cm / 8.1 inches
C.W. Dixey & Son was founded in 1777, making glasses for seven successive kings and queens of England, and the royal houses of nine countries. C.W. Dixey & Son started life at 3 New Bond Street in central London. It was founded by William Fraser, who had a reputation for his optical and mathematical instruments, whereupon he secured a royal warrant. Some years later, after the Fraser line died out, it fell into the hands of the Dixey family. It became G&C Dixey in 1824, before the final move to C.W. Dixey & Son in 1860, under Charles Wastell Dixey.
Estimated at £1,200 - £1,600
