Mystery Cosmetic Item

[aedrinark]

I purchased an Elgin piece online. It was advertised as a compact. Well, sort of. It's very small. It's hinged with a clasp like an ordinary powder compact. Inside there is a mirror and a well with a hinged cover and clasp. It's the well that is the mystery. It's shallow and the lid fits down into it. It's too shallow for cosmetics. About the only thing that you could carry there is a couple of postage stamps. The lid fits inside the well so tightly that I don't think you could even insert a snapshot of your sweetie. Why was it made that way and what was its purpose?

[mart]

Possibly rouge Or it could be made for a photo !!  Could we get a pic of the item !!  Hard to tell without seeing it !!

[wendy177]

Please post photos of your compact open & closed, Many compacts were made with this hinged door to hold loose powder in place or a very, very  thin layer of rouge. would need photos to be sure of which one you have.

[wendy177]

Sorry Mart did not read your post first!! 

[mart]

Doesn`t hurt to double up !!  LOL

[aedrinark]

Okay, guys, I'll try to get with the program and send photos, but not tonight. I'm worn out. Thanks for trying to help. I'm new to compact collecting.

[wendy177]

I have been collecting compacts for years & have lots of info on them so hopefully I  can help!! 

[KC]

Totally agree with the others about loose powder from the description.  However, small compacts were used for Victorian beauty patch boxes  and Smelling salts too.