| | | | Spectacular Chinese Spectacles
Selections from The Harriet and J. William Rosenthal, MD Collection 
The Chinese are often credited with the invention of glass, but the origin of spectacles themselves is still clouded in mystery. Spectacles in China existed at the time of the visit of Marco Polo in 1271, but most historians feel spectacles were likely of Mediterranean origin.Whatever the origin of spectacles may be, Chinese eyeglasses have a distinct and original appearance. The Chinese used a wide variety of materials to create their frames, lenses and spectacle cases. Their decorative designs were highly imaginative, including significant symbols from folklore, legend and religious roots. | In this case, the poor aristocrat who is caught up in spying fails to evade a court summons. As evidenced here, spying had become commonplace and even ridiculed. This, however, did not stop spying. On the contrary, spyglasses simply began to be manufactured into everyday objects. Spectacles in China were considered a luxury item from the time of Marco Polo until the 19th century. Wearing spectacles was a status symbol to the Chinese, indicating both intelligence and affluence. Their use of materials and their decorative motifs are highly indicative of how spectacles were viewed in Chinese society. Materials and MethodsFolklore, Legend and ReligionAnimal Symbolism |  | |
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