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Swiss Gold and Enamel Telescope
- Crafted of gold and enamel, this telescope is exceptional both scientifically and artistically
- The shaft is decorated with a charming scene of dancing tavern-goers
- 19th-Century personal telescopes are very rarely seen on the market
- The extraordinary creation is an exquisite example of this scientific tradition
- Get complete item description here
$78,500
Item No.
31-7153
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Description
Scientifically advanced and exquisitely crafted, this rare 19th-century gold and enamel Swiss telescope is an item of exceptional luxury. The Swiss creation not only provides a magnified view with optimal clarity, but also showcases remarkable decoration in the form of elegant gold chasing and an enamel scene of tavern-goers holding hands and sharing a dance. Such a beautifully crafted item would have been created for the personal use of a wealthy and affluent individual.
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Scientifically advanced and exquisitely crafted, this rare 19th-century gold and enamel Swiss telescope is an item of exceptional luxury. The Swiss creation not only provides a magnified view with optimal clarity, but also showcases remarkable decoration in the form of elegant gold chasing and an enamel scene of tavern-goers holding hands and sharing a dance. Such a beautifully crafted item would have been created for the personal use of a wealthy and affluent individual.
One of the most significant inventions of the modern age, the telescope was initially developed and came to public attention in the Netherlands circa 1600. However, it was in 1609 that Italian inventor Galileo Galilei improved upon the mechanism, thereby further advancing modern astronomy. His humble instrument, now preserved in the History of Science Museum in Florence, is a one-and-a-half-inch lens displayed in an ornate frame. Others soon followed. Fitted into simple wooden tubes just a few feet long, Galileo’s lenses magnified the heavens, bringing the moon, sunspots and nearby planets into focus. The present piece is an exquisite example of this scientific tradition.
Circa 1820
3 1/8” length x 2" diameter
One of the most significant inventions of the modern age, the telescope was initially developed and came to public attention in the Netherlands circa 1600. However, it was in 1609 that Italian inventor Galileo Galilei improved upon the mechanism, thereby further advancing modern astronomy. His humble instrument, now preserved in the History of Science Museum in Florence, is a one-and-a-half-inch lens displayed in an ornate frame. Others soon followed. Fitted into simple wooden tubes just a few feet long, Galileo’s lenses magnified the heavens, bringing the moon, sunspots and nearby planets into focus. The present piece is an exquisite example of this scientific tradition.
Circa 1820
3 1/8” length x 2" diameter
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Specifications
| Period: | 19th Century |
| Origin: | Other |
| Type: | Binoculars/Telescopes |
| Depth: | 2.0 in. (5.08 cm) |
| Width: | 2.0 in. (5.08 cm) |
| Height: | 3.13 in. (7.94 cm) |
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Read MoreBuy With Confidence
For over a century, we've placed important art, rare jewels and exceptional objects with more than 14,000 collectors worldwide, and have been recognized by trusted publications including Robb Report, The New York Times, Wall Street Journal and more.
On Approval
Examine select works in person before you commit
125% Guarantee
Full credit plus 5% annual appreciation for five years
Trusted Expertise
Over two centuries of combined experience across our specialists
