Why You’ll Love It
A beautifully crafted 1:12 scale miniature telescope by renowned artisan Gilbert “Gil” Mena, known for his finely executed woodwork and miniature furniture. This piece recreates a classic 18th- or 19th-century scientific instrument with elegant proportions and rich period styling.
The telescope is constructed from deeply stained wood with visible grain and a polished finish, giving it the appearance of aged mahogany or walnut. The cylindrical scope is mounted within a triangular pivoting yoke, with lighter wood detailing at the ends and subtle glass and brass elements suggesting functional optical fittings. Below, a graceful lathe-turned pedestal rises from a sculptural tripod-style scroll base, giving the piece the look of a finely made antique library instrument.
Perfect for
A library, gentleman’s study, observatory, conservatory, map room, scientific cabinet, university office, or collector’s interior. Especially effective in a scholarly or exploration-themed setting alongside books, globes, maps, or other instruments.
Details
Materials: Wood, glass & brass
Scale & Size: 1:12 scale; 3 ¾” tall x 2 ¼” wide
Condition: Excellent vintage condition
Artist: Gilbert “Gil” Mena
Collection: Madame 'Y' of Japan
Please Note: Listing includes the miniature telescope and stand only. Furniture, figures, and other staging accessories shown in photographs are not included.
A Note About Value
Every miniature we offer has been carefully evaluated for its craftsmanship, rarity, condition, provenance, and collectibility. Many of the artisan pieces we sell are one-of-a-kind works that may never appear on the market again. While original retail prices provide an interesting historical reference, they rarely reflect decades of appreciation, the artist's legacy, or the scarcity of surviving examples.
Our pricing reflects the miniature's place within today's collector market and the years we've spent studying the artists, histories, and values that make these tiny works of art so special.
A Commitment to Research
Every miniature has a story, and uncovering it is one of our greatest passions. We carefully research each piece, but unsigned or illegible works can remain mysteries. If you can identify an artist or provide additional information, we'd be delighted to hear from you and will gladly update the listing to preserve their legacy.




