Catalogue Number: 2625 Gold astig pince-nez with flat lenses in snap case Category: Spectacles and lenses Sub-Category: Pince-nez Year Of Publication/Manufacture: Between 1900 and 1920 Time Period: 1900 to 1939 Description Of Item: Gold frame astig pince-nez, 95 x 30 mm, with oval flat glass single vision lenses, approx R +2.50 D oblique cyl L plano, with straight spring bridge and adjustable pads affixed to inner frame rims. There is a small loop on the left rim to take a chain or cord. It is contained in a small metal snap case, 110 x 45 mm, covered in black fabric and lined with purple velvet. Gold stamped on the outside back of the case OPTICIAN / ALFRED NOTT / 145 COLLINS ST / MELBOURNE / CORNER RUSSELL ST Historical Significance: Alfred Nott Optometrists was established in Melbourne in 1896. The practice continues in 2015 in Bay Street Port Melbourne. The obituary of John Alfred Nott was published in the Melbourne newspaper 'The Argus' on December 11 1940. It reads: Obituary MR. JOHN ALFRED NOTT Mr. John Alfred Nott, of Kiora St., Essendon, who died on Monday night, founded the optician's business of Alfred Nott Pty. Ltd., Collins St., 40 years ago. A native of South Australia, he was a member of the Melbourne Rotary Club, a 'Past Master of the Rechab Masonic Lodge, and an elder of St. John's Presbyterian Church. Essendon. Before moving to Essendon, he was a foundation member and an elder of the Presbyterian church in Maribyrnong Rd., Ascot Vale. Following the last war. every week-end for five years he took returned soldiers from Caulfield and Repatriation hospitals for week-end motor trips. He leaves a widow and a daughter (Mrs. George Morison, of Mangalore). How Acquired: Donated by Michael Aitken, honorary archivist Date Acquired: June 2015 Condition: Good Location: Archive room. West wall. Unit 6 Drawer 1 |