Sweet Little Embossed Silver Compact with Flower Basket on Front and Suede Sleeve

This is a unique little compact by an unknown maker which features gorgeous embossed and damascened designs on the front and back.  The flower basket on the front even has tiny little enamel dots in the center of some of the flowers.  The interior features a mirror in the lid with some fogging and a rotating powder sifter in the base.  It came in a little chamois suede sleeve to protect it which snaps closed on the end.  Overall in great condition and just a sweet and usable little compact. Snaps shut tightly.  Measures 2-1/8" diameter.

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Full Portrait Compact of Pretty Lady Made in USA

What a pretty lady she is! Dressed in her Sunday best, this lovely woman's portrait makes up the entire front of this compact.  It is done on some type of celluloid or plastic material set into an embossed brass frame.  The interior has a beveled mirror in the lid which has some minor silver loss and "dust" and the original powder screen and puff with traces of loose powder in the base.  The bottom is engine turned.  The only markings on this compact is the phrase "Made in USA" beneath the hinge, so I have no idea who the manufacturer was.  It's a lovely compact for display or use. Measures 2-3/4" square.

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Faux Malachite Enameled Champleve Compact with Wrist Chain

This lovely compact has no maker's mark so I don't know where it was made but more than likely in the New England area as so many of these were.  The front of the case is done in very pretty faux malachite with champleve designs in the center. This is surrounded by black and green enamel in art deco influence.  The back of the compact is the same faux malachite enamel with black and green enamel surround. metallic mirror which opens to reveal a rouge pot with rouge still inside.  The base holds a rotating powder sifter.  Overall it is in very good condition with the top being excellent and the base having minor scuffs from usage and age.  No serious scratches or anything that goes into the enameling.  Comes with wrist chain for carrying.  No maker's marks or marks of any kind that I could find.  Measures 2-1/4" square.  Chain handle has 2-3/4" drop.

NOTE: I purchased this as being sterling silver but since I am not able to find a mark on it to prove that, I will not claim it is. However, it does tarnish like silver so perhaps I am just missing the mark as these can sometimes be quite tiny.

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Art Deco Figural Compact with Lady and Dog

Here is a very cute little art deco figural compact featuring a lady in high heels! walking her dog.  It is done on a pale green lid surrounded by a darker green case.  The back has the same colors but minus the figural.  At a glance it presents quite nicely but if you look closely, you can see tiny myriad scratches on both top and bottom from use.  Price is based on condition.  Inside is a metallic mirror in the lid which houses a rouge pot beneath with rouge still inside as well as a puff which may or may not be original.  There is a powder sifter in the base with another puff that may or may not be original.  Loose powder still remains as well.  Lid snaps shut tightly and overall this is a great piece for display or use.  Measures almost 2-1/4" diameter. 

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Sweet Figural Compact Featuring Romantic Couple by Lake

This is a very unusual compact and one I have never seen another like.  I am not even sure what the lid scene is  made of ... can't tell if it is paint, transfer, enamel or what. There is some faint crazing visible if you look closely.  So I can't be sure what it is.  Regardless, it is a lovely scene reminiscent of Nicolas Lancret's pastoral paintings of couples in similar pose.  Inside the lid is a metallic mirror which opens to reveal a rouge pot beneath.  And the base has a covered powder well (lid on powder well does not snap tightly).  Back of compact is done in cream color to match the front but again, I am not sure exactly what is is. I would assume the back is polychromed or painted.  Overall it is in excellent condition with exception of the crazing which is due to age and personally I like the way that looks as it gives it aging.  This is a small compact measuring only 1-3/4" x 2". 

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Sterling Silver Deco Silhouette Double Compact by JEB Co. with Deco Nymphs

Here is a lovely Art Deco influence sterling silver double compact made by James E. Blake Company of Attleboro, Massachusetts, who were in business from 1889 - 1936.  There is a silhouette of two deco nymphs on the front of the case suspended from a chain.  The compact itself opens from both front and back.  Each half has a mirror in the outer portion and the center section is designed to hold a rouge pot on one side and a powder pat on the other.  There is an original brand new unused lambswool puff inside with pink ruffled ribbon and celluloid trim ... very pretty!  There are a few dents in the case as are visible in pics.  There is also a scratch across the nymphs which has been blacked in but is visible when held to light (not when just looking at it straight on).  The original tassel was missing from the bottom but I was able to procure one that looks pretty close to what would originally have been with this.  Compact portion measures almost 2" diameter x almost 3/4" deep. 

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Jeweled French Bronze Enameled Compact with Original(?) Puff

Here is another lovely French bronze compact with a center vignette of hand-painted enamel roses on a turquoise blue background.  There are four turquoise jewels surrounding this.  The bronze case is extremely detailed with deep designs on the top and pretty designs around the edge.  Inside the compact is a beveled mirror in the lid which is considerably fogged and not really usable.  There is a perfectly fitted puff in the base with a paper label on it which may or may not be original but it is definitely vintage; however, I am assuming it to be original due to how perfectly it fits inside the case.  The bottom is marked Made in France.  Overall, with the exception of the mirror fogging, it is in perfect condition.   Measures almost 1-3/4" diameter x 5/8" deep (counting center vignette height).

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Lilly Daché Faux Ivory Compact Featuring Pierre-Auguste Cot's Painting "Springtime" in Relief

This lovely compact by Lilly Daché is done in faux ivory (ivorene) and features a deep relief rendition of Pierre-Auguste Cot's 1873 painting entitled "Springtime".  This compact is from Lilly Daché's "Loving Touch" line and is one of the finest and most desirable compacts from them. The designer's initials can be found above the figures just below the hinge.  Inside the compact has a full mirror in the lid, original signed powder puff, and powder in the base.  It has been gently used but there is still a lot of powder remaining.  The bottom of the compact has the original label as well.  Measuring 2-3/4" diameter x 3/4" deep, it is in excellent condition with no damage or cracks to the compact. 

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Sterling Silver Deco Silhouette Double Compact by R. Blackinton Co.

R. Blackinton Co. was founded in 1862 in N. Attleboro, Massachusetts, and became synonymous with fine silversmithing through the 1900's.  Amongst their many items, they also created a line of lady's vanity pieces and this is a fine example of one of those.  This compact is a very rare design in that it has TWO sides that open independently and each side has its own mirror, one for rouge and one for powder, as well as a carrying chain and pretty little tassel to finish it off.  The front of the case has a deco silhouette in black of a lady powdering her nose ... very sweet!  The back side of the case has the initials "MBB". Upon opening the top side of the compact, you will find a full size mirror in the lid and a powder pad with original puff which does not appear used at all.  The powder residue on the puff is just from resting on the powder.  Upon opening the back side of the compact, you will find another full size mirror and a rouge pot with original puff, again which does not appear used at all.  There were tiny rounds in between the puff in the rouge pot, one probably to keep each puff clean from the powders.  But since they were both in the rouge side, the powder puff did get some powder on it.  I have moved it now to the powder side so both are protected. The overall condition of the compact is excellent with no damage of note.  It is a beautiful piece!  The compact itself measures almost 2" diameter x 5/8" thick.  The chainlink handle has a 6" drop and the tassel is 2-1/4" long.  

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Jeweled French Ormolu Enameled Double Compact

This beautiful compact was Made in France and has an elongated shape with lots of detail on the lid.  There are 5 pront-set pearls in the center with enameled cobalt glass "jewels" in cobalt with gold and red florals.  The center ones even have tiny drops of white enamel to replicate the larger pearls.  There are also enameled leaves and blue flowers scattered across the surface.  It is quite an intricate piece!   When you open the compact, the inside features a nicely beveled mirror in the lid with a very ornate fleur-de-lis gold bezell ... there is some clouding to the mirror but it is still functional just a bit faded looking.  The bottom of the compact features two compartments, one each for powder and rouge, and both with a detailed ornate lid which opens on a hinge.  It is signed "Made in France" on the top rim under the clasp.  It is a truly beautiful piece!  Condition is excellent throughout ... base has a tiny dent but is inside the covered compartment so doesn't show from the inside. Measures 2-7/8" long 1-5/8" wide x about 5/8" deep.

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Jeweled French Ormolu Enameled Compact with Original Puff

Here is another lovely French ormolu compact with a red jewel in the center surrounded by 7 turquoise glass bezel-set "jewels" with enameled flowers inside.  I am not sure if these are a type of Venetian glass or not but they resemble the fine workmanship of the Venetian glass makers.  Each of these has droplets of white enamel on the surfaces resembling pearls.  The entire top and the beveled shaped sides are intricately enameled in white and green and blue to add to the beauty of this piece.  Inside the compact is a beveled mirror in the lid ... the mirror is in excellent condition.  What is really sweet about this piece is the original little lambswool puff with pink ribbon trim.  I love those!  It is marked "Made in France" on the inner rim beneath the clasp.  There is also another mark inside the base but I cannot find out what that is.   It is a truly beautiful piece!  Measures almost 1-3/4" diameter x 1/2" deep (counting center jewel height).

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Jeweled and Enameled Compact

This compact is a mystery to me ... there are no marks on it whatsoever and it is a silver finish rather than the French bronzes and ormolu compacts even though the design on the surface is similar.  It is still, nonetheless, a stunning compact with its beautiful rich cobalt jewels bezel-set on the surface.  The center 7 are cabochon shaped and smooth while the other 21 are faceted.  There is also white and charcoal grey enameling inset all over the top.  It is quite lovely!  The inside of the compact has a full mirror in the lid which does have a sliver of silver missing at the bottom.  Otherwise it is clear and usable.  The base has a rotating powder sifter in gold wash which resembles the Austrian compacts although I am not sure this one is.  Measures 2-1/2" diameter x 1/2" deep (counting center jewel height).

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Jeweled K & K Compact with Original Case in Mint Condition Dated 1931

This is a very unique and rare compact made by Kotler & Kopit.  It is done in jet black enamel with rhinestone jewels in the center and on the matching tassel cap which sparkle like diamonds.  The compact fits inside a case specially designed to allow the jeweled band to show through while protecting the enamel finish.  It is such an elegant design!  The inside features a beveled mirror in the lid and a covered powder well in the base with original screen and its original puff bearing the insignia for Kotler & Kopit which is the K & K initials with a reclining nude silhouette. The compact bears the patent number for the year 1931.  Back of the compact case is gold.  The interior of the case is lined in red to accent the compact and there is a felt sleeve to protect that as well.  Jewels are all intact and entire case is in mint condition.  It is a truly beautiful piece and is extremely well made. The craftsmanship is extraordinary!  Compact measures approximately 2-1/4" square.

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Jeweled French Bronze Portrait Compact

This is a stunning French bronze compact with a raised center medallion featuring a hand-painted portrait with foliate dress on a cobalt background.  The ornate bronze surround has prong-set sapphire and pearl jewels to accentuate the center portrait.  They are all intact and the portrait is in excellent condition as well. When you open the compact, the inside features a nicely beveled mirror in the lid with a ropetwist bezel ... some loss to the silver on the outermost edges only.  There is a darling purple ruched wool puff in the base and a removable powder pot which is probably a later insert.   Bottom of the compact is marked "Made in France."  It is a truly beautiful piece!  Measures 1-7/8" diameter x 3/4" deep (counting center vignette height).

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Gorgeous Scrimshaw Bronze Compact Featuring "Lover's Tryst" by Francois Boucher - Made in Austria

I have cherished this compact in my personal collection since 2003 and have always loved the tranquil romantic scene which is a variant of Francois Boucher's "Lover's Tryst" (also known as "The Four Seasons: Spring") done in 1755.  When I purchased it, I was told it was done on ivory but I cannot tell the difference between ivory and bone, so it could be one or the other.  Either way, the detail is exquisitely done and clearly shows both lovers with a sheep of to the side in a pastoral setting.  The scene covers the entire lid and is wrapped in beautifully detailed bronze prongs whch hold it tightly in place.  The sides of the case are richly embossed with Greek designs. Inside the case is a full size mirror with a tiny beveled edge.  The bottom half has a rotating powder sifter.  The lid is slightly domed and is quite heavy for its size as bronze will be.  It is marked "Made in Austria" on the bottom.  It is a truly exquisite piece measuring almost 2" diameter x 5/8" deep.

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Beautiful Champlevé Peacock in Jewel Tones Compact - Made in Austria

This is a really lovely compact featuring a full-bodied peacock on the front done in beautiful jewel tones in enamel champlevé.  The background is done in gold tone metal with black champlevé and the back of the compact is the same only without the peacock.  The compact has a full mirror inside the lid which is in very good condition with only the most minute silver loss at the very edges.  Marked "Austria" in the base.  Included is a new maribou puff.  Condition is absolutely fantastic with no chips or damage to the enamel whatsoever.   It is a large compact measuring approximately 3-1/4" diameter.

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Boucher's "Bird Cage" Painting in Enamel on Sterling Silver Compact Powder Box

Usually found on Italian sterling compacts, this lovely rendition of Francois Boucher's Bird Cage painting, originally done in 1763, has been beautifully replicated on this sterling silver compact box.  The painting covers the entire lid and is very detailed ... even has a sheep alongside. The sides are engraved with incised designs.  The piece is hallmarked 925 for sterling and another maker's mark that I cannot determine on both the lid and the base.   The lid has a metallic mirror inside and I have included a newly made lambswool puff.  It is in excellent condition.  Compact measures almost 1-3/4" wide x 1-1/4" x almost 3/4" deep. 

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Russian Sterling Silver Figural Enameled Compact Depicting Painting by Viktor Vasnetsov "Ivan Tsarevich, the Firebird and the Gray Wolf"

This very unusual sterling silver compact is done with a hand-painted enamel  front depicting a Russian fairy tale "Ivan Tsarevich, the Firebird and the Gray Wolf".  The particular scene is a copy of a painting done by Viktor Vasnetsov in 1887. The compact was made in Russia in St. Petersburg between 1927 - 1954 according to the assay marks.  The maker's mark is a bit uncertain as it could be Michael Jakovlevich Tarasov which would date it to the early 1927 year (documentation about this comes from Marks4Antiques and will be inclued with the piece).   It is all done on sterling silver with chased border.  The interior features a full round mirror in the lid and powder well in base.  Swansdown puff is included.  Overall in good condition with some scratches visible on the enameled surface when held to light.  Overall it is in very good shape. Measures 2-3/4" diameter.  

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Stratton Convertible Compact Featuring Fragonard's Painting "The Sermon of Love" in Original Box

This lovely Stratton compact made in England has a full scene on the front of Fragonard's painting from the 18th century entitled "The Sermon of Love".  It depicts a romantic couple with cherubs frolicking around a waterfall.  It is one of my favorite paintings by him and I particularly love the way this is done on the entire surface.  The compact comes in its original box and has a black felt sleeve for protection.  Inside the compact is a full mirror in the lid with a frosted beveled edge. The original powder screen is still there and there is loose powder still inside.  There is no puff.  This is a larger size compact measuring 3-1/2" diameter.

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Gorgeous Kigu Convertible Figural Compact with Peacocks Made in England - Unused!

Here is a very pretty Kigu compact with two full-bodied peacocks gracing the front.  The scene is just so peaceful and pretty.  I also love the scalloped edge on this.  The compact has never ben used and retains the original puff inside (some foam loss due to age), powder screen and the original paper insert.  There is a full mirror in the lid and the back is done in gorgeous concentric rings ... very pretty.  This compact would be mint condition with one exception ... on the front at the very top left edge is a tiny flake in the cream enamel and the white backing shows through.  It blends in so well that you almost have to be told it is there to notice it.  That is the only reason this compact is priced so low.  It's a beauty! Measures 3-1/4" diameter.

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Stratton Compact with Flower Bouquet and Original Box - Never Used! MIB

This lovely Stratton compact made in England has a beautiful "painting" on the front of a bouquet of wildflowers in pastel colors which are so pretty.  This is a later model compact as the box has a FAX number on the outside. The design on the back of this one dates it to the early 1990's.  Even so it is a beautiful compact in white enamel on the front with a scalloped design.  The compact is in its original box with original black velvety pouch.  The original puff and screen are intact inside and never used.  Measures 3" diameter.  (Note:  any Stratton compact 20+ years old is considered vintage)

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Stratton Compact Featuring Fragonard's Painting "The Sermon of Love"

This lovely Stratton compact made in England has a full scene on the front of Fragonard's painting from the 18th century entitled "The Sermon of Love".  It depicts a romantic couple with cherubs frolicking around a waterfall.  It is one of my favorite paintings by him and I particularly love the way this is done on the entire surface.  Inside the compact is an unused puff and powder screen.  The mirror has a frosted beveled edge.  It is in excellent unused condition and measures 3" diameter.

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Cute Figural Scottie Dog Compact (or Westie?)

This is an adorable little compact featuring a raised white Scottie dog head (or Westie) on the front.  It gives the appearance of being carved as the grooves are quite pronounced and he is wearing a red collar (some loss to the color ... easily replaced if you wish, I preferred to leave it as found).  There is a mirror in the lid and two covered pots in the base, one for rouge and one for powder.  There is loose powder still inside as well as rouge and an original little rouge puff.  The back of the compact is plain black enamel as is the front around the doggie.  Enameling is in very good condition ... there is a tiny dent in the bottom that you can see when held to light but the enameling was not affected by this.   Measures 2-3/4" x 2-3/8 x 3/8" thick.

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Rare Forest Scene with Cloisonné Enameled Animals on Both Sides by Volupté

This wonderful compact by Volupté is exceedingly rare ... they make several variations of this style of compact mostly found with elephants and jungle scenes.  This one features a forest scene with a stag and his doe beneath a weeping willow which is chock full of colorful exotic birds.  Both the front and back are identically done in this beautiul cloissoné design.  The four sides of the compact are also done in cloisonné flowers.  The interior opens to reveal an original puff and covered powder well in the base and a full size mirror in the lid.  The compact has been gently used and shows very minor wear ... pictures are super detailed and show any wear much worse than the eye will detect it, so rest assured the compact looks super in person.  Measures 2-3/8" square.

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Norida Fleur Sauvage (Wildflower) Poudre Unused Powder Box

These old paper powder boxes are so neat to add to a collection of more expensive compacts ... the graphics on them are just so very cool and due to the fragility of the items, much more difficult to find in this condition.  Made by Norida, this all-original powder box contains loose powder still sealed inside.  Other than some typical aging to the box (discoloration mainly on the side), it is in excellent condition throughout.  Especially the graphics on the lid which are pretty near perfect.  Measures 2-1/2" diameter x 3/4" high.

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Armand Bouquet Purse Size Complexion Powder Tin with Silhouette Lid

I just love this little tin powder box with the silhouette of an elegant lady on the lid.  This purse-size box of complexion powder was a complimentary item probably included when a full-size powder was purchased.  The price of this box alone would have sold for 50 cents in the 40's when this was made (be sure to see pics for the full description of this on the bottom).  There is only very minor wear to the litho on the tin which the photos make look much worse than in person.  To the naked eye it appears to be in excellent shape.  The contents are no longer inside so it is just the tin being sold.  Great collectible!  Measures 1-5/8" diameter x 3/8" high.

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Houbigant Translucid Rouge Box with Original Contents & Puff

This is an adorable little rouge box by Houbigant with their signature beribboned flower basket on the lid.  Made of paper covered cardboard, these fragile boxes are all but gone nowadays and very hard to find in this condition.  While the box shows some minor age-appropriate wear, the interior still contains almost all of the rouge and the original puff with the H visible on it.  On the botom it reads" Translucid Rouge Deep Red Ruby Houbigant New York".  Measures 1-5/8" diameter x 1/2" high.

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Deco Styled Enamel Compact with Damscened Back

This lovely compact reminds me of those made by Fisher but it is unmarked so I have no idea who made it.  The top is done in cloisonné style enamel (not guilloche) in lovely colors of cobalt, robins egg blue, pale green, dark green, yellow, white and red.  It is just so pretty!  The outer rim is done in deeply engraved x's and diamonds which repeats on the back edge.  The back center portion is all richly damascened in a beautiful design.  Inside the compact is a crescent mirror in the lid with an area for a rouge pat.  The bottom has a removable tap-sift powder dispenser.  All in all it is in excellent condition ... to the naked eye it is perfect ... with a loupe upon very close inspection you may see some crazing lines or a miniscule -- and I mean miniscule -- tiny flake but that is all.  It's as close to perfect as you will get.  Measures 2-1/8" diameter.

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Volupte' Figural Lady Compact in Original Box - MINT Unused Condition with Orignal Puff and Paperwork

I don't often buy compacts from this era (1940's) but this one was just so delightful that I couldn't pass it up. It has a fully enameled front depicting a lovely lady in Sunday best with wide brim hat with a feather flourish.  It is still in its original box marked Volupte' on the lid. The compact itself is in mint unused condition. When you open it, there is a mirror in the lid. The base has the original gold puff and paper liner protecting the powder beneath. Please see close-ups for both sides of this paper. The only apology is some foxing around the top of the mirror ... this is strictly age appropriate and not from use. Back of the case is done in green enamel with some very minor scuffing simply from being in the box. It is a fabulous compact! Measures almost 2-1/8" long x 1-5/8" wide.

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Divine Compact with Deco Dancing Nymph

Divine truly does make some "divine" compacts! Here we have a delightful dancing deco nymph wih feathery fronds behind her. She is done in a heavy application of enameling which gives a raised feel to it. Back of case is gold tone with paper label remnant that can be partially read "sh" at the end which may have been flesh tone. Interior features a mirror in the lid and partially used powder pat in the base. Very good condition with only very minor wear on the front bottom .. pictures are true to condition so please look at them closely. Measures 1-1/4" wide x 1-3/4" long.

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Stunning Evans Compact/Cigarette Case/Lighter Combo w/ Basse-Taille Enameled Front in Famous Blue Boy Painting

I have had this beautiful combo lighter/compact in my collection for some time now.  I just love the rich blue enameled Blue Boy design on the front.  It was made by Evans and is a Trig-A-Lite combination cigarette case/ lighter/ compact.  The compact opens to reveal a covered powder well in the bottom portion and a metallic mirror in the lid which opens to a brand new unused rouge pat marked Mayfair by Evans. Conditon is very good with the exception of two tiny rub marks on the bottom front corners (visible in pics).  The enameling is all perfect as are all the other components of this lovely item.  I do not know if the lighter works as I do not smoke and do not test these.  I buy them for the compact appeal.   Measures 2-1/2" x 4-3/8" overall.  Compact portion is 1-7/8" diameter. Be sure to look at all the photos of this wonderful piece!

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Silver Silhouette Compact with Engraved Design

This is a very pretty silver compact that is not marked sterling but it has a pretty significant silver content as it tarnishes as sterling.  It is engraved on both the front and back with a pretty flowering vine pattern which is very Victorian in design.  The inside is open for loose powder and has a mirror in the lid.  But the best part is the sweet little original puff inside with ruching and French ivory top which holds a little ribbon pull.  So cute!  Excellent condition throughout.  Measures 2-1/2" diameter.

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Tiny Enameled Figural Patch Box or Compact

This very tiny (only 1-1/4" diameter) patch box features a courting couple done in hand-painted enameling on the lid. The case is covered in black enamel that is chipping significantly on both the sides and the bottom (could be completely removed down to the brass base if this is bothersome ... personally I like the character it gives). The design on the lid is not completely flat ... it has a slight domed shape and there is some relief as the lady's knees are raised up a bit for depth. Interior is basically empty ... no mirror and no puff which leads me to believe this was a patch box.

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Scenic Pill Box with Enameled Scene of Firenze, Italy

This is a wonderful little pill or patch box in antique brass with a hand-painted enameled scene on the lid depicting Florence (Firenze), Italy. Sides of the box are ornately embossed with leaves, urns and scrolls (I will try to get a photo of this soon). Lid is hinged on and snaps shut tightly ... has a little tab to lift it open. Excellent condition overall with great patina. Measures 1-1/4" diameter x 5/8" deep.

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Hattie Carnegie Jeweled Figural Compact with Original Box
~ Mint Unused Condition! ~

This wonderful gold tone compact by 20th century designer Hattie Carnegie features a vignette of Armand Joan, Card. VX de Richeliev, a famous(?) French cardinal and statesman (at least that's the story that I was told when I purchased this some time ago). Surrounding the vignette is a circle of faux diamonds ... I tried to count them and I think there are 40 ... difficult to see them and count with my old eyes! In any case, I did ascertain that they are all there and none are missing. The gold case made it very difficult to scan with good color ... the lid design is grooved ridges that run left to right ... back is done in a very fine similar pattern but the grooves are not as defined. Interior has a covered powder well with the signature of Hattie Carnegie across the cover; beneath this is the original lovely peach swansdown powder puff and the original powder screen. A perfect mirror is in the lid. The compact has been kept in its original signed Hattie Carnegie box since it was purchased ... it has never been used and is in mint condition! Measures 3-1/4" x 2-1/4" x 3/8" thick.

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Elgin Marcasite Jeweled Compact

Purchased from a private collection, this adorable little compact is made by Elgin and done in a cream enamel on the front and back.  There is a flower shaped cartouche in the center of the lid with little marcasite jewels.  The sie of the compact is completely encrusted with marcasites all the way around.  Interior features a metallic mirror in the top with rouge pot and puff beneath.  Base holds a powder screen and puff.  Overall in excellent condition ... no damage whatsoever to the enameling on top or bottom.  There may be a marcasite mising here and there, but they are so tiny, my eyes would need a loupe to see them.   Very cute!  Measures 1-7/8" diameter.

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Red Double Heart Compact by Hingeco - Never Used!

This is a very attractive and stunning cherry red heart shaped compact with a gold heart raised up on the upper left corner.  Diagonal black enameled stripes set off the lower right portion.  Although outside of compact does show some age wear (one tiny dent in center of front barely visible), the compact has never been used.  Interior has mirror in lid and original powder screen and puff in base in mint condition.  Marked "Hingeco" and "Made in USA" on back.   Measures 2-5/8" overall.  

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Jeweled French Portrait Compact

Here we have one of my personal favorites and one I may very well decide to keep.  This fabulous little piece features a hand-painted portrait on a raised center enameled medallion and is surrounded by pearls and turquoise jewels.  The top is delicately filigreed in intricate designs through which can be seen a teal-colored background.  But my favorite part is the interior ... a beveled framed-in mirror can be found in the lid and the most darling little pink shirred lambswool puff still nestles in the base.  Bottom of the compact is marked "Made in France."  It is in excellent condition! Measures 1-7/8" long x 1-1/2" wide x 5/8" deep.

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Evans Petitpoint Mesh Vanity Case in NEAR MINT Condition!

This is the first and only one of this kind I have ever owned ... and it is in near mint condition.  The petitpoint stitches are extremely tiny and are done in soft colors of pinks, blues, and greens with some gold on a mauve background.  The top is bordered in embossed designs with black enameled accents.   I love the way these open up in four different directions ... first for the purse, then for the mirror, then the powder, and finally the mirror swings open for the rouge.   This one has the original rouge puff and the rouge still has the Evans motif embossed in it. I don't believe it's ever been used .. the puff is only stained from being stored on top of the rouge.  There are a few chips to the enamel covering the powder section; again, I think this has occurred simply from age rather than use as there is no sign of it ever being used.  There is also a tiny white puff in the powder compartment.  Bottom portion is lined in pale green satin and outside is finished in bright gold mesh.  Compact top measures approximately 2-1/2" diameter; purse when lying flat measures 4" diameter.  This one is a real beauty!

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Scottie Compact in Unusual Shaped Case

Scottie collectibles are so hot and compacts with scotties are even harder to find than the usual collectibles.  This one came from an estate where it had been much loved as evidenced by the wear to the compact case and interior.  I believe it was nickel over copper and the copper is showing through which give it a beautiful warm glow.  The interior has oxidation to the edges and a bit of rust in the powder compartment under the powder lid.  Original puff is still inside with a rust spot on it from the metal.  Even with these problems, the compact is a darling collectible and displays beautifully.  Has a suitcase hasp type closure.  Back is engine turned with a small area for a monogram that is still empty.  Measures approximately 1-1/2" wide x 2" high.

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Stratton Figural Compact with Romantic Couple

Here we have another rare and pretty Stratton figural compact with another romantic couple on the front.  This young pair appears to be relaxing in a formal garden of some sort with beautiful architecture ... even a fountain (note the head on the far right side with water pouring from the mouth in the wall).  This compact has been used and still has the original powder pat inside.  Surface shows some very minor superficial scuffing visible upon close inspection and when held to light.  Scuffs do not go through the scene.  Measures 3" diameter.

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Striking Black Marathon Compact/Cigarette Case/Lighter Combo w/ Enamel Guilloche Front with Nosegay of Flowers

This outstanding combination compact/cigarette case/lighter was made by Marathon in the late 20's or early 30's.  Features a compact on the front with green enamel guilloche background and hand-painted flowers.  Very pretty!  Inside is done in gold wash with clips to hold cigarettes.  Interior of compact portion features a mirror in the lid and original Marathon signature powder puff and screen in excellent condition.  All enameling is in great shape with no visible chips and only very, very minor baby fine scuffs appropriate for age.  All in all a 9 out of 10!  As these compact combos go, black is a very rare color to find.; cream and green are much more common.   Measures 2-1/2" x 4-1/4" overall. 

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Elgin American New-Old-Stock - 2-Pc. Compact & Lighter Set Brand New in Store Display Box

Try as I might, I could not even come close to capturing the color of this wonderful Elgin American gift set.  This was new-old-stock (meaning it's never been used) ... the set includes original store display boxes and sleeves for the pieces.  Each piece is embossed with three deco gazelles in shades of gold on a brushed silver background.  Both items are MINT condition!  Compact approximately 3" x 2-1/4" and has original paper advertisement inside.  Matching lighter is 1-1/4" x 2-1/8".  Be sure to look at all the pictures of this superb set!  

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RARE Color & Style Marathon Enamel Guilloche Compact/Rouge/Lighter/Cig Case Combination dated 1934

WOW!  This spectacular Marathon combination compact/rouge/lighter/cig case is one of the only ones of its kind I have seen.  Rare style and color make it a real treasure!  Case is done in solid satin green enamel while the compact is a beautiful pale green enamel guilloche with hand-painted roses.  The lid lifts to reveal not only a covered powder well but a bright metallic mirror that pops up to expose a rouge pot (with rouge still inside!).  Interior of case is done in engine turned designs on silver base metal.  There is an inscription etched into the back of the compact that reads "Happy Birthday Evelin Gadwallader from J.W.S  1934."  Enamel is all in very good condition with no chips or flakes, only superficial scuffing from normal wear.  Case does have a few very minor dents visible upon close inspection, but really not a factor in such a rare piece.  Measures 2-1/2" wide x 4" high.

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Russian Tsar Peter the Great Statue Embossed in Sterling Silver Dated 1782

Thanks to a kind person, I was able to learn that the statue depicted on this compact is located in St. Petersburg in Russia. It is a statue of Tsar Peter the Great who founded the city and tried to modernize Russia in the 18th Century. The statue was erected by Catherine the Great. The front of the compact features a richly embossed horse and rider with the words "Petro Primo/Catharina Cecundo" and the date MDCCLXXXII which is 1782.  There are silver hallmarks on the back.  Case measures 2-1/2" diameter and is in excellent condition.  There is a powder screen and a swans down puff inside.

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R & G Company 14K White Gold Vanity Compact w/ Enameled Cartouche in Center

Here we have a stunning little compact done in acid etched designs on a solid 14K white gold front case.  In the center of the lid is a raised cartouche with enamel guilloche white background and hand-painted rose.   Edge of case is deeply embossed and back has deeply etched designs as well.  Interior is just as stunning as the outside ... there is a framed-in mirror on one side and the tiniest little rouge pot on the other with a rotating powder sifter around it (no rouge).  It comes with the orginal finger ring chain as well. Marked R & G and Belais 14K White Gold Front.  Very Victorian looking.   Measures a mere 1-7/8" diameter.

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Stratton Steamship Collectible Compact "RMS Queen Elizabeth" - Titanic Era!

This is a double collectible compact featuring the Queen Elizabeth steamship crossing the Atlantic.  Her double smoke stacks are clearly visible.  Made by Stratton, this is one of their earlier designs.  The compact was obviously much loved by its former owner as it does show wear.  There are a few very minute chips on the front that really aren't noticeable unless you really look for them.  The back of the compact is gold tone with concentric rings.  Inside features a mirror in the lid in perfect condition and covered powder well in base (some scuffing on cover).  All in all, a very desirable collectible for both steamship and compact collectors.  Measures almost 3" diameter. 

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Stunning Combo Watch/Compact in Enameled Case by Illinois Watch Co.

Here is a fabulous piece of jewelry as well as a functional compact for milady fair.  Made by Illinois Watch Co. -- known for their fine quality watches -- this MINT condition piece features a working watch in the ivory-enameled lid.  Shaped like a clamshell, the interior is all goldtone with a half-circle mirror in the lid.  Base has covered rouge pot, covered powder well, and the clock compartment.  Retains original unused puff and protective felt sleeve with the Illinois Watch Case Co. name on it.  This is just an extraordinary piece!  Back is finished in ivory enamel as well.  Measures approximately 3-1/4" wide x 3-1/2" high. 

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Rex Fifth Avenue Compact with Enamel Guilloche Cottage Scene

This is a very unusual compact done by Rex Fifth Avenue. They usually did not do scenics; however, this one has a darling cottage scene that appears to be hand-painted in enamel guilloche on the front surrounded by a dark blue cover. The scenic portion is slightly domed like a pillow to give it a raised effect. The interior has a full mirror in lid and covered powder well in base. The original Rex Fifth Avenue puff is still inside in perfect condition and powder well is still full of loose powder. Overall condition is remarkably good. Measures 2-5/8" wide x 2-1/2" high. 

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Fun Evans Enameled Compact with Jeweled Bugs!

Purchased from a private collection, this is a really interesting and fun compact.  Although it is unmarked, the original owner claimed it to be made by Evans.  Case of compact is gold and the lid is done in a grey/blue pebbled look enamel with three large jeweled bugs!  How fun!  Each bug has raised white enamel eyes and gold stripes on the jeweled backs.  Interior features a perfect mirror in the lid and covered powder well in base with original puff.  The interior has a pebbled effect in the gold metal.  In excellent condition with only a very few minuscule enamel misses on the lid barely visible.  Very cute!  Measures 2-1/2" square.

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RARE Jeweled Green Enameled Double Compact from Germany

Purchased from a private collection, this is a very rare compact made in Germany.  What is unusual about it is the way it is made ... the lid opens to reveal another green enameled compact!  The lid features a mottled green enamel with a diamond design in the center with marcasites.  The other frame is black enamel.  Back of case is same mottled green enamel.  Now when you open the lid, the base has a perforated powder screen with a tiny ring to lift it from the bottom.  The lid has another green enameled lid which opens to reveal a framed-in mirror  (has a few tiny spots but still very clear) and an open well for rouge pot inside.  Overall in very good condition ... there is only one small chip on the back edge.  Compact is convex shaped on top and bottom.  This is a really great piece!  Measures 2-1/2" diameter.

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