19th Century Chinese Silver and Jade Magnifying Glass, circa 1880

This finely worked and intricately designed hand magnifying glass dates to circa 1880 and was made in China. The beautiful silver frame that holds the polished magnifying glass is ornately decorated with a continuous band of squirrels and bunches of nuts or fruit which have been delicately cast and pierced with superbly detailed hand engraving, particularly to the features and the fur of the squirrels. The handle extends in flat silver which is also engraved with an exotic bird and mounted on the front face is a tablet of white jade which is carved and pierced with a decorative floral design. On the reverse of the handle there is a silver mark which is simply stamped silver which was often done at this time. This fine magnifying glass is in good condition throughout.

Dimensions: W 17.5 cm (6.9″) x D 10 cm (3.9″) x H 1 cm (0.4″).