Cairo's Eyeglass Workshops Navigate Tradition in a Tech Era

The craft of handcrafting glass lenses for eyeglasses, prevalent in historic Cairo, is declining due to technological advancements in lens manufacturing and the rise of machinery that utilizes artificial intelligence and digital software for production.

 The use of glass lenses to enhance vision dates back to ancient times, evolving from magnifying texts in the European Middle Ages to full eyeglasses by the late 13th century.

 With industrial advancement, plastic materials were introduced into lens production by the mid-20th century for their low weight and ease of manufacture. However, some traditional workshops still prefer glass for its precision and clarity.

 In Egypt, the craft of eyeglass-making has historical roots, especially in areas like Bab El-Louq and Abdeen, where optics workshops thrived, providing lenses essential for both medical professionals and customers. Though the number of artisans in this ancient trade has waned with the advent of modern materials and production methods, the craft remains necessary for cases requiring precise measurements.