Tortoise-shell scissors spectacles
 Catalogue Number: 841 Tortoise-shell scissors spectacles Category: Spectacles and lenses Sub-Category: Spectacles folding, scissors glasses Year Of Publication/Manufacture: c1935 Time Period: 1900 to 1939 Place Of Publication/Manufacture: Melbourne, Australia Publisher/Manufacturer: Charles Wantrup Description Of Item: Tortoise-shell scissors spectacles. Round convex lenses. (No sides). Size folded: 8.7 cm x 3.6 cm. These scissors spectacles have been made in the style of examples from early in the nineteenth century. Historical Significance: Charles Wantrup was a Melbourne optometrist. He brought some sections of real tortoise-shell from Europe to Melbourne before WW2. It is likely that he fashioned this item (and also Items 840 & 842) as optical curiosities to entertain his personal interest and to show off his craftsmanship. How Acquired: Donated by Mrs Wantrup, widow of Charles Wantrup, optometrist Condition: Excellent Location: Archive Office. Spectacles cabinet Drawer 6 |