Gold and Enamel Minaudière Art Deco 1920-1930.

Rectangular minaudière carrying case in enameled gold. It is embellished with alternating gold and black enamel stripes and ringed with a frieze of small diamonds. The main face of the case is decorated with a geometric pattern of two black enamel squares framed in gold and highlighted with small diamonds. A small button on the top unlatches a small drawer to open the case. On the inside, an ivory plate covers a system of hinges that open a mirror. The ivory plate, in combination with a gold crayon accented with a cabochon, serves to take notes. Another hinged compartment opens to store lipstick and makeup. An exterior ring serves to hang the case by a chain. This minaudière is characteristic of the Art Deco style. The demand for a carrying case accessory such as the minaudière rose after the First World War and the development of feminine cosmetic products. Jewelers saw the opportunity that the trend presented and created small carrying cases that were influenced by other cases that had appeared in France during the 18th century. The clean lines and quality of the enamel work of this piece is characteristic of the Art Deco style.
Engraved on the interior: Sarks 14th Avenue.
Weight: 4.8 oz (136 g) Height: 2.8 in (7 cm) Length: 17 in (4.20 cm)
Early 20th century craftsmanship. Art Deco.