Sunday 10 January 2010

Elgina powder and rouge compact

American compact manufactures are credited for offering the lady a more diverse and fun powder compacts in comparison to their European counterparts with much more glamorous, sparkling or mother of pearl tops. With makers such as Marhil, Volupte, Rex Fifth Avenue to name but three, typical American additions to the compact often includes either a chain, finger ring or rogue compartment. The later addition became increasing commonplace due to cosmetic companies aiming to attract women into buying a 2 in 1 product allowing the customer to perfect her "well groomed look" in an indulgent yet portable manner.

So let me welcome you to this Elgina duo New York compact. While i'm still trying to work out if Elgina is a company name that turned into Elgin [any information on this would be grand because I can't find anything, anywhere about Elgina as a company] this compact is my delightful latest addition to my compact collection so lovingly brought for me by my JJ.
This sweet little golden compact comes embedded with the Greek Caduceus symbol upon its top. A symbol comprised of a staff entangled with serpents, sometimes including wings it is one often seen to be held by Mercury, the messenger of Gods, a guide to the dead and protector to merchants, shepherds and gamblers.
The Caduceus
Opening up the lid reveals not only its mirror, but in addition its two distinct compartments designed for the rogue [at the top only its flap cover can be seen in the above image] and the powder [the larger compartment at the bottom]. The rouge itself is concealed and kept in place behind a flap.
Upon the silver compartment is engraved the directions for a quarter to be sent to 358 5th Avenue in New York in order to have your rouge refilled.

Its such a delightfully practical yet wildly gorgeous compact. With gifts like this my guy treats me, and makes me feel like a princess. My vintage treasures are all the more meaningful because of him.

7 comments:

  1. Love all compacts

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  2. I love the The Caduceus, as I'm in the medical profession I think it's a very relevant symbol to me. Might have it as a tattoo one day. Love the compact.

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  3. Yeah I was thinking it would be a good design for a tattoo.

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  4. Wow, that is a gorgeous piece <3

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  5. I lov your header :)

    xoxo
    mycherrygum.blogspot.com

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  6. Your fellow certainly sounds like he's a prince among men. I'm truly happy that you two have found one another and that he knows the exact kind of treasures to bestow upon you.

    Sweet soul, I really want to extend my sincere thanks to you for your lovely comments this month. I apologize if it sometimes takes me a wee bit of time to return the visit and enjoy the delightful beauty and inspiration of your site. Please know that I always appreciate your visits and the thoughts you share with me so very much!

    Oodles of hugs & wishes of happiness,
    ♥ Jessica

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  7. Hi,
    Many thanks for visiting my blog today. I too collect powder compacts, I done for about 13 years now. I have some posts about it on my blog, there should be a section on them in the right hand margin. In fact you have reminded me that I have still not posted about the ones that my in-laws gave me at Christmas.
    Have a good weekend.

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