An mid century Mascot powder compact with mother of pearl inlay

CONDITION: good vintage condition with some signs of use

SIZE: 3 x 3 ins (7.5 x 7.5 cm)

APPROXIMATE DATE: 1950s to 1960s

MATERIALS: metal, glass, mother of pearl

DESCRIPTION:

Here is an attractive square powder compact made in solid brass. The lid has an art deco influenced design of (genuine) mother of pearl slabs inset into a black and gold enamel framework. The back of the case is decorated with a classic engine turned design.

Inside the lid are a mirror and a flip up compartment for powder. The hinge is not loose and the closure snaps shut and works well. There is no powder puff or sifter. The case has previously contained product.

Made by Mascot

FURTHER INFORMATION:

The collage photograph shows illustrations taken from contemporary ads for compacts, makeup and beauty products. Mid century advertisements were clearly designed evoke an aura of glamour and romance.

By the 1950s the makers of compacts and similar vanity items were competing to satisfy the demand for luxury goods. Manufacturing confidence soared in the mid century, and the production of such items was at its height. Many compacts were given a luxurious appearance by the inclusion of exotic materials (whether genuine or faux) such as mother or pearl, tortoiseshell, jade and coral. The lids and cases are often encrusted with fancy decals set with rhinestones and faux pearls or decorated with elaborate applied designs as here.

The maker of the Mascot brand of powder compacts was known as A. S.  Brown & Co. (Manufacturing) Ltd, located in London. The company were well known for producing novelty powder compacts. Some were stamped with a crown symbol on a blank oblong cartouche.