Silver "Minaudière" by Boucheron, Paris, 1940s

A "Minaudière", or "Necessaire du Soir" or "Vanity Case" is not simply a make-up case, as one might think from the modern meaning of the latter word. In the years after the First World War, it was much more of a statement, a piece that expressed the self-confidence of the new woman. And this is how it came about: With the end of the war, the former social order with its rigid hierarchy of women and men, the iron values of the family and the outdated moral virtues of the imperial era were finally discredited. With the dawn of a new era, women also fought for a new independence, a new self-confidence, which they also carried to the outside world. The most visible sign of these changes was the bob hairstyle. But make-up was now also used much more confidently, freed from the reputation of moral doubt. No wonder that completely new accessories were now needed for festive occasions. The major jewellery companies such as Cartier and Boucheron produced so-called "Minaudières", which were taken to the ball like a small handbag. In addition to coins, they could hold all kinds of personal items - and were also a portable dressing table! Our Minaudière was produced by Boucheron in Paris in the 1940s. The solid silver piece is a rectangular block with an openwork decoration of butterflies and flowers set with rubies on the top. The ornaments are gold-plated and allow a clear view of the mirror below. When opened, the Minaudière has numerous compartments, including a powder compact, space for a lipstick, a comb and a cigarette holder. The mirrors in the lid can be opened so that the result can be examined immediately. The toiletry bag comes with its original Boucheron case.

Estimation:€2,490

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