Antique and collectible history / Damascene

Rare Vintage Maravilla Powder Compacts

Rare Vintage Maravilla Powder Compacts

The Spanish word maravilla means wonderful! 

The lid decoration of this vintage compact is indeed rather wonderful. 

This compact measures 4 inches diameter and weighs 167.9 grams. We have never seen another one just like this! Although we have very little information which relates directly to the maker of this splendid vanity, we do know that this accessory was crafted in Spain as part of the luxury goods trade & it is steeped in the history of Spanish damascene ware. 

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Damascene Compact Mirrors And Vanity Sets And Shinto Symbolism

Damascene Compact Mirrors And Vanity Sets And Shinto Symbolism

This post is dedicated to wonderful vintage Japanese vanities which are ornamented with deeply symbolic Shinto imagery. 

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Origins Of Damascene And Chokin Adornments As Seen On Vintage Japanese Powder Compacts

Origins Of Damascene And Chokin Adornments As Seen On Vintage Japanese Powder Compacts

The term damascene is said to be English and derived from the view that this sort of decoration resembles damask silk. This technique originated in Syria, Western Asia. Some hold the opinion that the term damascene derives from the name of Syria’s capital city, Damascus. It is believed that the process of creating damascene adornments was first practiced over 1,500 years ago. The people of the Orient regard damascene as a symbol of good fortune. 
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