Silver gilt, lacquer, moonstone and diamond minaudière, Van Cleef & Arpels, circa 1950

The rectangular black lacquer minaudière decorated with a stylised pink gold belt motif, the platinum buckle set with cabochon moonstones and single-cut diamonds, opening to reveal a comb, a powder, a brush, a cigarette and a pill compartments, a lipstick holder and a lighter, mounted in silver gilt, signed Van Cleef & Arpels, French assay and indistinct maker's marks, measurements approximately 180 x 115 x 22mm, with a suede and silk carrying case, comb and one small diamond deficient. 

Mounted in silver gilt, metal tested as gold for the belt motif and platinum for the buckle clasp. Mirror chipped in corners. Comb deficient. Scratches to black lacquer, one small dent on face side, the belt motif slightly raised at one end. The larger moonstone chipped. Diamonds good brilliance, one small stone deficient. Tarnish and scratches to metal mainly on the inside. Signs of wear commensurate with age. Suede and silk carrying case with signs of wear. In overall good condition.
"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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Mrs Florence Gould, the wife of the American railway magnate, approached Charles Arpels in the 1930s and asked him to design a vanity case for her, one that would replace the Lucky Strike cigarette box she had been using to hold various personal items: lipstick, comb mirror etc. The result was what came to be known as the Minaudière, one of Van Cleef & Arpels most memorable and innovative creations. Fashioned in gold or lacquer, and often embellished with diamonds and coloured gemstones, these stunning evening accessories became an instant success, and elegant women world wide considered them a necessity.