Chinese Leather Eyeglass Case

Spectacles once rode in a pocket of sharkskin.

This eyeglass case was made in China in the 20th century of shagreen, a pebbled skin often from shark or ray, with metal fittings. The long, oval case is covered in tiny rounded beads, dark green with flecks of lighter tone. Copper-colored metal bands cross the middle and curl at the ends, with a small break near the front tip where the metal is worn. A twisted cord is attached at one end for carrying. The surface shows plenty of use.

About 7 inches long. A pocket-sized relic with real texture.