Ladies Compact (Very Old)

[Marc-Barr]

I was just curious if anyone has ever come across a compact like this before. Not sure of it's age but it looks pretty old. Can't tell if the front is hand painted or a decal of some sort.No idea what it is worth. Anyone have any suggestions? Thanks in advance!

[mart]

Well at least it tells you who did the original artwork and when !!  Is the number at the bottom of first pic 925 or 935 ?? What are the two symbols on the right ??  Where are you located ?? Country, or state or

[greenacres]

I've seen similar ones on ebay. They can go for a pretty penny.

[Marc-Barr]

Its 935. As for the symbols, I can't tell. I've looked with a magnifying glass under a bright light and can't make it out. I was hoping the pics would make it more clear. I'm in the USA (Connecticut) Many thanks for the advice.

[Marc-Barr]

Here is a little more clear shot without the glare of the front

[mart]

Well, that brings up another thing !!  The pic is signed on the front L. Semler !!  So back is not the artist possibly !!  Let me check on a few things !!

[mart]

From  what i can find so far,, the compact is likely Austrian, Leo Semler was the artist that did the front enameling and artwork !! It is taken from the art that is listed "After J Francois De Troy" Wooing is the title of the painting !!  935 is the silver standard for Germany, Austria, Switzerland !! But did see a few other items listed that were signed by Leo Semler but no compact yet nor have i found a makers name that he worked for !! Could have been more than one,, still checking !!

[Marc-Barr]

WOW! Thanks Mart! It looks more like a bronze than a silver. I saw the 935 and was curious about that because silver is usually 925.That's very helpful and can not thank you enough. It's good to know. Many thanks again! I REALLY Appreciate it! 

[mart]

Everything I have found says about the same as I have already told you !!  You might want to take it to a jeweler and get him to look at the other symbols with a loupe !!  That may tell who the maker is !! Most all I found were from early 1900`s !!  Values of the ones I found are anywhere from $200. up !! Depends on condition and detail !! I would guess yours about $300. to $500. depending on who is looking to buy !!  Could do more or less,, you never know !!!

[KC]

Picture was one of famed FRENCH artist Francois de Troy - however the artist who recreated it for this compact is listed on the front (as Mart indicated - cudos Mart).

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fran%C3%A7ois_de_Troy


Mart, Austria and Switzerland also used 935 for silver content as well!

These pieces are very collectible.  Recommend you get a jeweler loup (or good magnifying glass) to determine other marks...or take to jeweler like Mart recommended! 

NICE PIECE!!!!