British Optical Association Museum in London

Founded in 1901 by the British Optical Association, this museum is among the world's leading experts concerning the history of glasses and spectacles. The museum consists of a remarkable collection of nearly 10, 000 outstanding items related to the origins of optometry, the human eye, and visual problems. Many of the exhibits in the museum are real rarities. Since 1980 the museum, under the custody of the College of Optometrists, includes about 2000 pairs of spectacles, daring back from the 17th Century up and untill the present day.

There are also many other optical devices such as scissor spectacles, monocles, folding eyeglasses, binoculars, magnifiers, and quizzing glasses. In addition, the museum owns a rare collection of fans with ornate 'spy glasses' in the handles, as well as a notable set of porcelain eyebaths. The Museum possesses authentic spectacles of many famous personages, including Dr Johnson, C.P. Snow, Ronnie Corbett and Dr Crippen. There is also an interesting exhibition of oil paintings devoted to optical themes. Of particular interest is also a small Egyptian amulet presenting the 'Eye of Horus', dating back to 400 BC. In the centrepiece stands a large statue of St Odilia, who is the patron saint of those suffering from ophthalmic diseases.

Name: British Optical Association Museum
Address: 42 Craven Street,
Phone: +44 2 7766 4353
Email: museum@college-optometrists.org
Website: http://www.college-optometrists.org
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