Horn Magnifying Glass, Netherlands

Magnifier with a fluted grey handle and a brass finial at the tip.

This magnifying glass with glass, metal and horn is from the Netherlands, and dates to the 20th century. Horn is a natural material from animals that can be softened with heat, shaped and polished, and it was a common choice for handles on small tools. Magnifying glass, round, with a thin brass rim and a ribbed, cylindrical handle in grey and brown striations. Brass collars join the handle to the lens, and a small turned brass finial ends the grip. It is 4 inches wide, 0.5 deep and 10.25 high.

Reading tool with a surprisingly fancy tail.