Retro Compact Owned by Joan Fontaine

This magnificent Swiss Art Deco minaudière compact is believed to have been owned by renowned film star Joan Fontaine. Crafted of sterling and gilded silver, this captivating compact is decorated with a bold floral motif that sparkles with diamonds and ruby cabochons. As practical as it is beautiful, this ingenious case is the perfect companion to take on a night on the town. The cover opens to reveal a mirror and well for pressed powder, a refillable lipstick tube, small tortoiseshell comb and lighter, all neatly tucked into the sides. A small watch flips out on top, so keeping track of time is a breeze. Featuring the engraved initials “JF” and held within its own fitted suede and silk-line pouch, this gorgeous piece is a work of true luxury.

Features French hallmarks

Circa 1935

2 3/4” wide x 3 3/8” length x 1” deep

Joan Fontaine was one of the most exceptional actresses of the golden age of the silver screen. Born Joan de Havilland in Tokyo in 1917, she was the sister of actress Olivia de Havilland, who is known for portraying Melanie in Gone With The Wind. Fontaine was nominated for several Academy Awards, and in 1942 she became the youngest leading actress to win an Oscar for her work in Alfred Hitchcock's Suspicion (1941). Her life was not without turmoil, however. Her rivalry with her sister was epic and legendary. Even as children, the sisters had a contentious relationship that intensified when Fontaine won the Oscar for Suspicion, the same year that de Havilland was nominated. Fontaine's alleged brushing off of her sister's congratulations opened a wound that was never healed, even at the time of Fontaine's death at age 96 in 2013.