This fine brass and wood spyglass is an original article, manufactured in the 1930s. It is a functional piece that apart from letting the user watch far away objects, boasts a great decorative potential too. The spyglass has five pipes and preserves all its original component parts, including the lenses. It can be easily folded and unfolded, and is a very special piece because of its sober design and wonderful condition. The first spyglass (hand-held telescopes) appeared between the 16th and 17th centuries. They are supposed to have been invented by Hans (or Johann) Lippershey, a Dutch scientific, astronomer, inventor and optician born in the 16th century. In the beginning, spyglasses were mostly used by naturalists, seamen and ornithologists. They are still widely used, sometimes even for astronomical observation. This spyglasss main pipe is made of mahogany wood. It keeps the original shiny finish and the mahogany piece boasts the classic dark red color of this noble wood. The contrast between this deep color and the golden brass provides the piece with a high aesthetical interest and turns it into the perfect item to embellish any shelf, showcase or writing desk. The inner pipes are also made of brass but in this case their finish is matt. They are all in good condition. Its authenticity and functional beauty turn this vintage spyglass into an exclusive piece worthy of a great living room or study. Measurements: Closed: Width: 1.9 in/5 cm. Length: 4.9 in/12.5 cm. Unfolded: Lenght: 14.9 in/38 cm.