Antique American Swan's Down Houppette, Powder Puff, La Pierre Manufacturing, Sterling Silver Bowl, Early 1900's, Newark, New Jersey, USA ..

Swan's down powder puffs have been handmade in France since 1900. Puffs were originally used by nobility to whiten their skin with rice powders. Today these incredibly soft puffs are coveted by make up artists for providing unparalleled coverage on the skin as well as those seeking to add luxury to their daily bath experience.

Swan's down houpettes were used not only for body powder, but also for the face. They are efficacious in applying the powder in a very delicate layer.

This offering is for a fine rare La Pierre Manufacturing Company, Sterling silver powder bowl and silver handled powder puff which measures approx 11 cm in diameter and stands approximately 5 cm in overall height. It weighs approx 194 gs in total. The piece is overall plain in design with a lovely engraved lid with swags and flowers to a central shield this is engraved with fancy initials 'EB', as is the top of the Powder puff. The inner side of the bowl is lightly gilded.

The item is hallmarked Sterling silver and carries the stamp for La Pierre Manufacturing Company, of Newark, New Jersey, who were renowned for their high quality silver vanity items. It dates to the Late 19th early 20th Century. The piece is in excellent used vintage condition, and in fact it looks like it was never used at all, if the condition of the puff is anything to go by. The puff is larger and more ample than other puffs I have, and is in beautiful clean condition.

There are a couple very minor pinhead dints and some minor age related surface ware to the silver. This is quite a rare item to find in such good unused condition and would add to any collection of American Art Nouveau or make an ideal gift for any elegant, sophisticated, and glamorous lady!

Collectors ..