Sterling Silver Heart Chatelain Compact with Finger Ring and Swansdown Powder Puff - American - Art Nouveau

Like a time capsule, this little heart will transport you.. open it and imagine a lovely lady readying for a party or the theater where she might need to powder her nose, imagine her slipping the ring over her finger and caressing its contours, her mind drifting to her suitor whose gift it had been.

CONDITION is remarkable with only normal wear. The piece has the wonderful, warm patina that comes with gentle handling over time. There are only a couple of the most minor bumps, so small and inconsequential you really don't see them in the photos. The mark is that of Foster and Bailey of Providence, Rhode Island (1878 - 1898), and was later used by their successors, Theodore W. Foster & Bro. also of Providence. However, I think the flowing style of the engraved letters points to an early date, as well as the swansdown puff and loose powder compartment. Later American compacts like this generally displayed Art Deco styling, including more angular shapes, rose engine guilloche engraving, and more modern letter styles, as well as powder compartments configured for pressed powder. The sterling silver heart measures 1 3/4" east to west, 1 7/8" north to south, and approximately 1/2" thick. The overall length with the chain and ring measures 7 1/4". The little mirror inside measures 7/8" in diameter sight size.

This would make the most romantic of gifts. Enjoy!

Item ID: RL-893