Maison Hermès, “Eye” desktop magnifying glass in gilt brass, 1960’s

Maison Hermès, signed.

“Eye” desktop magnifying glass in gilt brass shaped like a stylized eye.

Work realized in the 1960’s, based on a drawing by Jean Cocteau, on going production.

Stamped and signed “Hermès Paris” on the inferior part of the magnifying glass.

Small mark of oxidation on the edge.

Dimensions :

• case : H 2,5 x D 13 x D 9,5 cm.

• magnifying glass : W 10 x D 7 cm.

Reference : LS4282184

Jean Cocteau (1889-1963), writer, poet, playwriter, filmmaker, but also drawer, ceramist and graphic designer, explored several forms of art all along his career. The author of “Antigone” or “Œdipe roi” revealed the actor Jean Marais, in particular in his film “La Belle et la Bête” in 1946. His prolific production, notably more than 300 pieces of ceramics and jewels, inspired the Parisian studio Hermès. Founded in 1837, the saddlery became a flagship of the French luxury industry during the 20th century, notably thanks to its famous “carrés” in stamped silk. The particular graphic style of Cocteau would be reuse as this magnifying glass, known as “Cleopatra Eye” or as a beach towel, edited in 2011 for the marriage of Prince Albert of Monaco.