Bell & Brothers
Magnifying Glass

RetailerAmerican, c. 1860–c. 1895
CultureFrench
Titles
  • Magnifying Glass
Datec. 1890–1895
Retailed inSan Antonio, Texas, United States
Made inFrance
MediumSilver with gilding and glass
Dimensions7 1/4 × 3 1/8 × 5/16 in. (18.4 × 7.9 × 0.8 cm)
Credit LineThe Bayou Bend Collection, gift of William J. Hill
Object numberB.2018.40
Non exposé

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Department
Bayou Bend
DescriptionThe firm of Bell and Brothers of San Antonio, Texas, retailed this magnifying glass. At the time it was sold, stores like Bell and Brothers carried extensive assortments of silverware, jewelry, watches, and “fancy goods.” Almost all their manufacturing had ceased, and they operated overwhelmingly as retail establishments.
ProvenanceWilliam J. Hill (1934–2018), Houston; given to MFAH, 2018.
Inscriptions, Signatures and Marks
[no inscriptions]
Marked on bezel: FRANCE / STERLING
Marked on handle: FRANCE

Cataloguing data may change with further research.

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