Un-marked compact for cream powder, c. 1950s-60s.

This was the first compact I bought. I love all the quirky 1950s imagery, the spotty curtain, the potted plant, the 45prm records, and the tiny little high-heeled slippers! There’s so much to look at. Purchased from a charity shop.

Vogue Vanities 1950s.

I love witches so naturally this was one I had to have! I particularly like the black cats. I wonder what a lady would have thought if her husband had given her this as a present? No wonder there aren’t many of these about. Bought from Wanda Ingham, the ‘Deco Girl’.

TLM 1930s

A small square chrome-plated compact for loose powder. The scene on the lid is really beautiful. The delicate sun ray patterns in the foil are lovely when turned in the light, and the trees are reminiscent of those painted on Art Deco pottery. Bought from an Ebay seller.

Elgin American 1930s?

Chrome-plated compact for loose powder and cream rouge. I saw this compact in a book and thought I must try and find one. I love chrome and black compacts, and subtle Art Deco designs. Bought at Westpoint Antique fair, Exeter.

Selfridge 1920s-30s

Small goldtone pressed powder compact made for Selfridge’s range of face powder. I love Lilies of the Valley, and they are also one of the flowers associated with the month I was born, May. These slightly stylised flowers fit in with the Art Deco imagery prevalent at the time. Bought at Torquay Fleamarket.