Zac Zemby and Elliot Handler formed Elzac in 1941. The company has become synonymous with hand painted ceramic, Lucite , feather, leather, wood, raffia, enamel and fur trimmed jewelry during the rationed materials WWII era. The extremely popular and now iconic lady and gentlemen faces of the early 1940s have been termed Victims of Fashion although this moniker was never referenced in the company's documentation. In later years, subsequent to Elzac's closure in the late 1940s, Elliot and Ruth Handler along with head production manager Harold Matson formed the Mattel Corporation, the largest toy industry in the world. One wonders if Barbie herself, a Victim of Fashion refinement.

The brooch presented, circa early 1940s, features a hand painted ceramic face with the characteristic, exaggerated Elzac makeup, and dramatic feather and faux fur trimmed headpiece with felt piping. We think at one time so also donned a leather bow near chin. Reverse retains oval wood backing with original embedded and glued simple c clasp pin mechanism.

Condition is excellent vintage despite missing bow at throat and considering she is near 80. Feathers and faux fur trim intact and securely attached. Perhaps 98% of face paint intact. Since these faces were hand painted, all were uniquely exaggerated and not perfect -- perhaps why later they were termed "Victims". No chips or breaks to ceramic. Even, clean skin tone. Some discoloration on felt piping where bow was originally attached -- this issue reflected in price. Wood backing and pin mechanism strong and secure. There is some oxidation of silver tone pin metal. No repairs. Missing bow, as noted. Remaining components excellent.

The brooch is not signed. Most Elzac pieces were labeled with paper tags and sometimes handwritten titles or names. CIrca 1942-1945.

Enter the wonderful, whimsical world of Elzac. Putting your best face forward. At Cody's.

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Thanks for taking a look.