1930s French Powder Compact with Romantic Scene
Description
We love the blue colouring and elegant decorative details displayed by this eyecatching French compact - we were also delighted to find it in unused condition! Circular-shaped and with a slim, gently-curving design, it is made from a smooth, early plastic, which shows a softly shining appearance. We understand that many French compacts of the 1930s were made from a plastic which was known as 'Erinoid' in Europe, and 'Galalith' in America. The plastic edges on the top section of the compact have been decorated with gold-coloured tracery, whilst the base displays an undecorated appearance (apart from the words 'Made in France' inscribed into the plastic). The compact lid is embellished with a romantic scene, depicting a gentleman playing a guitar; the lady he is serenading is dressed in eighteenth century style costume. The picture is protected by a clear cover, whose edges are decorated with tracery similar to that seen on the blue plastic. The circular, hinged lid has a metal border, and is lifted via a metal catch. The interior of the compact reveals a framed glass mirror, and there is a powder well (for loose powder) within the base; the latter contains a powder sifter which has fabric mesh and a plastic outer rim. Over the sifter rests a fabric powder puff, whose top layer features an attractive border in blue stitching to match the colour of the plastic case.
Manufacturer: Unsigned
Country of manufacture:
France
Price: £68.00
Product ref: C152
Condition
Excellent. This charming compact is in highly desirable condition, as it is unused and reveals very little evidence of its age. The plastic is smooth and unchipped, and retains its soft sheen. There is some very slight scuffing at the centre of the base, but this is a minor fault and is not easily noticed. The tracery around the plastic edge, and on the transparent plastic covering, is in very well-preserved condition throughout. The romantic scene is clearly defined and undamaged. The metal border has darkened over time so that it now displays a deep goldtone finish, but again, we feel this is a small fault. The metal inside the compact has a bright goldtone appearance, except for one area where the colour has darkened. The powder well is clean, and the sifter is in pristine condition. The puff is robust and unused, with just some slight, age-related marking on its underside. The mirror is clear, revealing no clouding or spotting. The catch closes firmly and securely. This delightful item has survived remarkably well, and we see it joining a collection of fine compacts, or alternatively being displayed and admired within a dressing table setting!
Material: Plastic and metal
Measurements: Diameter 70mm
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