The invention of eyeglasses, also called "spectacles" by earlier generations, is believed to have occurred between 1286 and 1289. From the beginning the intent of glasses has been to improve eyesight, but their design has not always been practical.

The Museum of Vision, an educational program of the Foundation of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (FAAO), has worked to preserve and promote ophthalmic heritage and create collections of artifacts that mark the the historical progression of glasses, eye surgery, eye diseases and more.

Mostly worn by monks and scholars, early glasses were held in front of the eyes or balanced on the nose.  The invention of the printing press in 1452, and the growing availability of books, encouraged innovations in design and the mass production of inexpensive spectacles.

The main components of a pair of spectacles are the lenses, made of glass or quartz crystal, and a frame that typically consists of a rim and bridge.  Side or temple pieces that rest over the ear are a surprisingly late innovation.  In 1727, Edward Scarlett (1677-1743), designed the first temple spectacles with side pieces.

Want to see what the Roman’s used as an eye device or the first picture ever published with a pair of glasses in it? Take a virtual tour of the museum's fascinating collections without leaving your house!

In honor of its 30th anniversary, the award-winning museum has launched a new web site, www.museumofvision.org.