This Victorian Tortoise lorgnette is circa late 1800's. It is all original and in fabulous condition.It has an elaborate carving made from the shell of a Tortoise in a scrolled cutout floral design. The reading glasses are still functional and the lenses can also be removed to customize your own prescription. Lorgnettes were popular in the late 1800's and Tortoise shell was used for many fashion items. Today however, the species is protected. Demand is still high for the Tortoise look in accessories such as eye glass frames and jewelry, but this look has been reproduced with man made materials.