1950s Powder Compact and Lipstick Case by Vogue Vanities

Description

We were delighted to come across this unused powder compact and lipstick case set, still in its original gift box! Both vanity items and the box bear the 'Vogue Vanities' trade mark, which was owned by Birmingham-based company Blackmore Productions Ltd (originally Blackmore, Howard & Metherell Ltd). The brand was in existence between the early 1930s and the mid 1950s, when it was taken over by its major competitor, Laughton & Sons (owners of Stratton compacts).

This set is likely to date from the early 1950s, and we were particularly pleased to find it in such complete condition. The round compact is made from goldtone metal, and displays a glossy and colourful enamelled lid decoration. The scene has an exotic flavour, showing a bird resembling a Bird-of-Paradise, complete with nest of eggs, and a floral accompaniment in soft tones of green and pink. These images are highlighted with golden edging, which stands out against the smooth and shining black background. The base of the compact is embellished with a simple spiral pattern. Pressing the catch at the front of the compact reveals an interior containing a framed glass mirror, and a separate compartment for loose powder. The compartment door has a 'brushed' metal finish, and displays the Vogue Vanities trade mark, which also includes the words 'Made in England'. The compact is complete with its unused powder sifter and puff - the top layer of the puff has been inscribed with the Vogue Vanities name. The interior of the compartment reveals a felt edging, which was designed to minimise powder spillage. The compact is accompanied by its fabric pochette (also bearing the Vogue Vanities trademark).

The other vanity item in the set - the lipstick case - displays the same glossy, black, enamelled exterior as the compact, and has the Vogue Vanities name inscribed on its goldtone metal base. Although it is otherwise undecorated, the lipstick case is neverthless an unusual item, as this is the first occasion we have found a Vogue Vanities example. It dates to a time when lipstick refills could be bought and inserted into cases such as this - needless to say, the move to 'throwaway' plastic lipstick cases during the 1960s saw the phasing out of this system. In today's world, refillable lipstick cases fit into the category of being items of interest, rather than having a practical use. This Vogue Vanities case is made more special by the survival of a paper leaflet, which was rolled up inside it. This provides information on the size of lipstick the case could hold, plus the names of the lipstick makers - familiar cosmetics companies including Max Factor and Elizabeth Arden appear, as well as brands from the past such as Goya. This is the only time to date that we have found a lipstick case containing such information.

The compact and lipstick case are contained within a box, whose base layer has been fitted with cut-out spaces, covered with a glossy, light-coloured fabric. The Vogue Vanities trade mark is printed in gold-coloured lettering on the underside of the box lid, whilst its top is covered in red fabric with a velvet-like feel.

Manufacturer: Vogue Vanities

Country of manufacture: England

Product ref: C137 - SOLD

Condition

Excellent Plus (Compact and Lipstick Case). Both items are unused and have spent the decades carefully protected within the box; consequently, they have survived in highly desirable condition. The gleaming goldtone metal casing of the compact is undented and unscuffed. The decoration on its lid is distinct and retains a glossy finish; close examination with a magnifier reveals the black enamel to be slightly uneven in places, but this is not easily visible and it might have always been the case. The compact interior is in extremely impressive condition; the mirror is clear and the metalwork is bright and unscratched. The puff and sifter are in pristine condition. Both the inner and outer catches snap shut securely. The lipstick case is similarly well preserved, with its gleaming metal base and smooth, unchipped black enamel. The wind-up mechanism still works efficiently. The only fault we can find is a little unevenness along the enamel edge in one area; again, close examination with a magnifier reveals this is likely to have always been so. The paper leaflet remains robust and intact. The pochette for the compact is also in very appealing condition, as it shows minimal sign of age or use.

The cardboard box has not emerged in quite the same unscathed condition as the compact and lipstick case - although the box base and lid remain strong individually, they were once joined together at the back and this is no longer so. However, they continue to protect their contents just as successfully, and aside from some darkening to the red fabric top and minor wear to the base, the box has survived well. We think this unusual Vogue Vanities set may well appeal to a collector, but the compact is certainly an item which could be carried and appreciated for its original purpose!  

Material: Goldtone metal and enamel

Measurements: Compact diameter - 76mm. Lipstick case has height of 54mm. Box dimensions - h:110mm x w:140mm