Folding tortoiseshell spectacles with case, Chinese, 1801-1900

Folding spectacles with support bar on bridge, tortoiseshell and brass, one lens lacking, in circular, tortoiseshell portable case with cord attachment, Chinese, 1801-1900, inscription "Mr. K.Y. Chui,~manufacturer of ....crystal goods, glass-ware, and various~kinds of spectacles. His~business establishment was situated in the Long Life lane;~outside the Peaceful Gate of the Canton province"

These tortoiseshell spectacles fold into a matching, portable case. This has a cord attachment so it can be easily carried. Tortoiseshell was expensive and indicates a wealthy owner. The Chinese inscription on the case gives information about the maker: ‘Mr. K.Y. Chui, manufacturer of ....crystal goods, glass-ware, and various kinds of spectacles. His business establishment was situated in the Long Life lane; outside the Peaceful Gate of the Canton province.’ Spectacles may have been used in China as early as the 1100s.