GWALIOR. A pair of military binoculars, the gift of Maharaja Sindhia of Gwalior

A pair of military binoculars /field glasses of Paris manufacture with interesting Indian connections, They measure 4¾ ins / 12cm when closed and 6¼ / 15.5cm with the eye pieces and lens guards extended. Although a fairly standard pair of military glasses by Lemaire, Paris these are distinguished by being engraved on one of the extending eyepieces SINDHIA’S GIFT above a broad arrow and on the other S. 3 4628 . The numbers could identify the recipient but further research is needed. This type of field glasses was in use from about the last quarter of the 18th century until WW1. Binoculars were regularly carried by officers in leather cases with service dress. This pair have clearly been well used but are in decent condition with just some rubbing to the leather. The Mahrajas of Gwalior were especially generous to the British and these could have been given to British officers although it is more likely they were presented to officers of his own State Forces. may13/1

Apologies for the fact that the illustrations are not properly orientated because of a temporary problem.