These 'pince-nez' spectacles were originally fitted with convex lenses for reading. Demand for reading glasses increased in the mid-1400s when printed books began to appear. In 1480-81 imports to London included cargoes of over 30 gross (30 x 144) of spectacles. This pair has a bone frame (cattle bone) with an iron pivot so that the lenses can sit either side of the wearer's nose. There are no arms on this type of spectacle.
