Book review: Fashions in Eyeglasses

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This is not a comprehensive history of frame manufacture, but there is much historical detail on the development of eyewear, supplemented by a broad selection of prints, and several plates of contemporary eyewear accompanying each chapter. The early regulatory work of the Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers is featured, and there are some interesting portraits of influential 18th century opticians such as Scarlett, Ayscough and Martin (a surprising omission is the equally important Cuff).

Primarily the book is a work of social history. The author, who taught theatrical makeup and worked as a makeup consultant, previously produced Fashions in Makeup and Fashions in Hair. The stated purpose of Fashions in Eyeglasses is to provide a practical guide to styles of eyeglasses worn throughout history, for the benefit of costumers, makeup artists, actors and illustrators.