THE GOLD AND DIAMOND NÉCESSAIRE DU SOIR, CARTIER, PARIS, December 1947

In the form of an egg with twisted ropework borders, the front engraved with the armorial bearings of His Royal Highness The Duke of Windsor, the reverse with a monogram of the initials WW for Wallis Windsor below a Royal Ducal coronet, the thumbpiece collet-set with a rose diamond, suspended from a pendant ring accented with single-cut diamonds, opening to reveal a single lidded compartment with a mirror and feather powder puff, measurements approximately: overall length 125mm, case length 85mm, width 61mm, depth 55mm, signed Cartier Paris, French assay marks and maker's marks.

Cf: Sotheby's, The Jewels of the Duchess of Windsor, Geneva, Thursday 2nd April 1987, Lot 28.

Stamped 750 and French assay marks for 18 carat gold, maker's marks. Diamonds weighing approximately 1.50 - 2.00 carats in total, 1 rose-cut and 80 single-cut stones, bright and lively. Fine quality engraving to front and reverse. Weighing approximately 219 grams. Light scratches to case consistent with age and wear. Accompanied by a feather puff. Accompanied by a fitted case made by Cartier after 1987 sale at Sotheby's. In 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."

The Duke of Windsor has a very distinctive and unique Royal Coat of Arms.  All children of the Sovereign have a label consisting of three points argent, The Duke of Windsor's is specific only to him with the centre point charged with an Imperial Crown proper.  The engraving on this evening bag is very fine and each differing technique represents a colour within the quartering on the Royal Arms; vertical lines for red, dots for yellow and horizontal lines for blue. 

The Duchess of Windsor is often captured on film with this evening bag whilst attending balls and events in both New York and Paris. It was purchased by the Duke of Windsor from Cartier in 1948.