Stanhope souvenir tape measure and needlecase

Object/Artifact

-

San Francisco School of Needlework and Design

Name/Title

Stanhope souvenir tape measure and needlecase

Entry/Object ID

2022.2.2

Tags

Needlework Tools, Needlecase, Tape measure, Stanhope

Description

A novelty tape measure and needlecase souvenir with a Stanhope peeps on the tip. The tape measure is encased in the top portion that is made of coquilla nut. Both the bone shaft and nut top have circles carved into them and perforated circular designs.

Context

Stanhopes are collectible souvenirs also known as 'peeps.' The end of these tools have a miniature lens that magnifies micro-pictures. Lord Charles Stanhope (1753-1816) invented the tiny glass rods that were 0.26 cm in diameter and 0.65 cm in length. Advances in photography came during the second quarter of the 19th century, and René Dagron saw the possibilities of mass manufacturing novelty items using the microphotographs. Dagron was granted the first microfilm patent in France in 1859, he later took out a British patent, followed by a US patent. Stanhope views depicted popular towns, resorts, spas, etc., making them wonderful souvenirs and keepsakes.

Collection

Needlework Tools

Made/Created

Manufacturer

René Dagron, Lord Charles Stanhope

Time Period

19th Century

Material

silk ribbon, Vegetable ivory

Provenance

Provenance Detail

Teresa Mize Needlework Tool Collection

Acquisition Method

Donation

Acquisition Date

2022