Gold Plated Specs Apparently Belonging to Mahatma Gandhi, to be Auctioned in UK
Mahatma Gandhi’s “famed” round-rimmed specs were an integral part of his appearance, identity, and personality. Now, a similar pair of gold plated spectacles believed to belong to Gandhi is being auctioned in the UK.
Mahatma Gandhi’s “famed” round-rimmed specs were an integral part of his appearance, identity, and personality. During his years of prominence when he initiated the “non-violence” campaign against the British rule, very rarely have we seen him without the “iconic” specs.
Now, a similar pair of gold plated spectacles believed to belong to Gandhi is being auctioned in the UK. It is estimated to fetch between 10,000 to 15,000 pounds.
East Bristol Auctions in Hanham, South West England told that the spectacles had been dropped through their letterbox in an envelope.
Andy Stowe of East Bristol Auctions said, “It’s a huge find of great historical importance. The vendor had presumed them to be interesting, but of no value and did tell me to dispose of them ‘if they’re not worth anything’.”
He added, “I think he nearly fell off his chair when we presented our valuation. It’s a really great auction story – and one that we all dream of.”
This valued gift fell into the hands of the unnamed vendor’s family. The vendor’s father told him years back that they were a gift to his uncle when he worked with the British Petroleum in Africa. The place where Gandhi spent a crucial phase of his life while he studied law! It was the period between 1910 and 1930.
Stowe believes that Gandhi didn’t wear glasses until the late 1910s and early 1920s. So, this would have been one of his earliest specs.
In the auction lot details, the vendor’s note is attached in which it is mentioned that his uncle was working for British Petroleum in South Africa and it can be presumed that these pairs of glasses were gifted to him by Gandhi probably for a kind act. Gandhi was well known for handing over some of his personal items to his admirers and loyal followers.
The lot titled ‘Pair of Mahatma Gandhi’s Personal Spectacles’ is part of the auctioneers’ ‘Military, History, and Classic Cars online sale.’ The auctioning of these “highly valuable glasses” will take place on August 21 in the UK.
