Enamel, mother-of-pearl, ruby and diamond powder compact, Cartier, 1929

The circular case with a hinged cover decorated with a mother-of-pearl and hardstone marquetry plaque depicting a dragon emerging from waves, within a gold and black enamel border enhanced with rose diamond and cabochon ruby motifs, opening to reveal a mirror, diameter approximately 60mm, signed Cartier, numbered, French assay mark, the Chinoiserie by Vladimir Makovsky.

Cf: Franco Cologni and Ettore Mocchetti, L'Objet Cartier: 150 ans de tradition et d'innovation, Paris, 1992, pgs. 126 and 127 for an illustration of this compact.

Rubies of Burmese origin cannot be imported into the US. This piece may contain rubies of Burmese origin and therefore may not be able to be imported into the US. Certification of non-Burmese origin will be required before import of rubies into the US. Please see our Important Notices and contact the jewellery department for further information. Accompanied by Cartier certificate of authenticity no. GE2001-375. Signed Cartier Paris Londres New York, inscribed HSA 1359 and numbered 0982. Stamped with French assay mark for 18 carat gold. Rubies well matched in colour. Chinoiserie in good condition, a few scratches and very minor nicks. Black enamel with minor signs of restoration to the lit, thumbpiece with a little loss, bottom with some scratches, overall in good condition. Signs of normal wear to the metal, scratches consistent with use. In good condition. Gross weight approximately 81 grams.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Please note that colour, clarity and weight of gemstones are statements of opinion only and not statements of fact by Sotheby's. We do not guarantee, and are not responsible for any certificate from a gemological laboratory that may accompany the property. We do not guarantee that watches are in working order. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue, in particular to the Notice regarding the treatment and condition of gemstones and to the Notice regarding import of Burmese jadeite and rubies into the US.
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