Rare French Celluloid Powder Compact 1940s
A rare French celluloid compact made in the 1940s as a souvenir compact.
More beautiful powder compacts.
Both the lid & base are celluloid. The lid is striking aquamarine celluloid with the word 'PARIS' in a banner & the coat of arms of the city of Paris which dates back to 1358. On the coat of arms, the vessel is the symbol of the powerful corporate body of the Marchands de l'eau, dating back to the Middle Ages. The city motto, "Fluctuat nec mergitur" ("She is tossed by the waves, but does not sink") is a reference to this boat. Also le coq gaulois is shown opposite the coat of arms & above these on white celluloid are the most famous landmarks of Paris - 'TOUR EIFFEL, ARC DE TRIOMPHE, SACRE COEUR, OPERA, NOTRE DAME & INVALIDES' in gilt lettering next to images of these iconic buildings. Each location is set with a rhinestone & the River Seine flows through the middle of the 'map'. The double thumb catch ensures ease of opening. The mirror has some age related marks, however as you can see from image three it gives a good enough reflection to be a useful accessory. The original card edged sifter is in place. It has a silk tab & it is in good condition. The powder well & all surfaces, except for the celluloid ones, are gilt. The whole compact is in excellent condition. Measures 2 3/4" & weighs 68.5 grams.
This vintage compact is suitable for use with modern loose face powder or as a handbag mirror.
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