examples of eyeglasses

The shape of glasses varies depending on the period and their use (e.g., correcting far- or nearsightedness, protecting the eye, magnifying).

opera glasses

Optical magnifying instrument held in front of the eyes; it is used for looking at relatively close objects such as at the theater.

monocle

Single lens held in place under the ridge of the eyebrow.

lorgnette

Glasses held in front of the eyes by a handle attached to the side of one rim.

pince-nez

Glasses whose frame has a spring bridge that grips the nose.

sunglasses

Glasses with lenses that filter the sun’s glare to protect the eyes.

scissors-glasses

Lorgnette whose lenses fold back over one another and can be slipped into the handle, which also acts as a case.

half-glasses

Glasses with half lenses to correct farsightedness; the empty space above them is used to see distances.