EZY REDE PORTABLE MAGNIFYING GLASS

A chrome metal and glass EzyRede Magnifying Glass. The form of the magnifying glass is much wider than most, with the idea that it could be set down on a book or newspaper allowing you to read more before you had to move it. The folding legs to the front and back are made to different heights so that the glass is held at an angle. It is described on its leather case as 'The Perfected Reading Glass' and was patented in 1918 by the inventor, Lucian W. Bugbee, for Franklin Optical Company of Indianapolis. It is also marked to one side of the Magnifying Glass with its name and 'Patented 1918.' The company offered the EzyRede with and without folding legs. So were sold with leather cases, such as this example, whilst others simply cam in a cardboard box. Early 20th century.