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
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
Edwardian Silver-Mounted Magnifying Glass, Birmingham, 1901
Located in Spencertown, NY
The curling glass handle with silver mount connecting to magnifying glass.
Category
Early 20th Century British Edwardian More Desk Accessories
Materials
Silver
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
Jade and Sterling Silver Large Magnifying Glass
By Edward Farmer
Located in New York, NY
Jade and sterling silver large magnifying glass, early 20th century.
Makers mark for Edward
Category
Early 20th Century American More Desk Accessories
Materials
Jade, Sterling Silver
