Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
What was the first documented use of magnifying glasses?
1 Answer
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
George III Gallery Magnifying Glass
Located in Lymington, Hampshire
A George III gallery magnifying glass, the circular glass within a mahogany frame, the baluster
Category
Antique 19th Century English George III Scientific Instruments
Materials
Mahogany
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
$716 Sale Price
20% Off
Magnifying Glass on Stand, 19th Century
Located in Vosselaar, BE
Magnifying glasses are already recorded as far back as the Ancient Greeks. Troughout history they
Category
Antique 19th Century Italian Victorian More Desk Accessories
Materials
Softwood, Walnut
