Devices to improve eyesight in general have been around for hundreds of years. It was not until the 1800's that opera glasses achieved their position as a status symbol among theater-goers of the day.
Opera was also an important social event. People attending the opera wanted to be able to see and be seen and often spent time scanning the audience as well. To do this, they needed a simple and convenient magnifying device. Opera glasses were the perfect solution.
Like many other accessories, opera glasses quickly became status symbols. They were used by members of high society to view what was happening in the audience as well as what was on stage. Often it was normal to spend much of the evening scanning the crowds as being seen was just as important as seeing a performance itself.
Because of this, anything connected to the opera could become a status symbol. Opera glasses were no exception. A person attending the theater often had a pair made of expensive materials such as gold or enamel. The outsides of the glasses were often highly decorated. Cases to keep the glasses in were often highly decorated as well. Different variations came into being including lorgnette models that had an attached handle and folding models that were quite compact.
Modern opera glasses are much the same as they were in the beginning. They still come in several different models. Opera glasses are still popular as well. They are not hard to find but it may take a bit of looking on your part. You should start your search in stores which sell binoculars. A camera store may have some or they may be able to order them for you.
One thing to look at when selecting your opera glasses is what the level of magnification is. Unlike a telescope or high powered binoculars, you will want to make sure that there is a fairly low level of magnification. A 3x magnification factor is considered ideal. This allows you to get a large field of view and it will keep shaking from hand movement as low as possible.
The actual style you choose is a matter of preference. Do you like the traditional look of the lorgnette? Are you interested in a style which folds down very small? You can also look at the accessories that are out there including straps and carrying pouches.
If visibility at concerts and plays is important to you, you should consider a pair of opera glasses. They are so much more than simply outdated viewing devices. They can find a way to make any stage performance you view clearer and much more rewarding.
Opera was also an important social event. People attending the opera wanted to be able to see and be seen and often spent time scanning the audience as well. To do this, they needed a simple and convenient magnifying device. Opera glasses were the perfect solution.
Like many other accessories, opera glasses quickly became status symbols. They were used by members of high society to view what was happening in the audience as well as what was on stage. Often it was normal to spend much of the evening scanning the crowds as being seen was just as important as seeing a performance itself.
Because of this, anything connected to the opera could become a status symbol. Opera glasses were no exception. A person attending the theater often had a pair made of expensive materials such as gold or enamel. The outsides of the glasses were often highly decorated. Cases to keep the glasses in were often highly decorated as well. Different variations came into being including lorgnette models that had an attached handle and folding models that were quite compact.
Modern opera glasses are much the same as they were in the beginning. They still come in several different models. Opera glasses are still popular as well. They are not hard to find but it may take a bit of looking on your part. You should start your search in stores which sell binoculars. A camera store may have some or they may be able to order them for you.
One thing to look at when selecting your opera glasses is what the level of magnification is. Unlike a telescope or high powered binoculars, you will want to make sure that there is a fairly low level of magnification. A 3x magnification factor is considered ideal. This allows you to get a large field of view and it will keep shaking from hand movement as low as possible.
The actual style you choose is a matter of preference. Do you like the traditional look of the lorgnette? Are you interested in a style which folds down very small? You can also look at the accessories that are out there including straps and carrying pouches.
If visibility at concerts and plays is important to you, you should consider a pair of opera glasses. They are so much more than simply outdated viewing devices. They can find a way to make any stage performance you view clearer and much more rewarding.
About the Author:
Jeff Bridges has always loved the theater and opera, he currently helps run an opera glasses retail site where they sell opera glasses. Including Opera Glasses with handle, flashlight, chain and more!
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