A gold-mounted lacque burgauté vase, made by Lavabre for Cartier Paris, 1926

of tapering angular form, the sides and neck inlaid with black lacquer decorated with figures and pavilions in mother of pearl, the shoulders and edge of top rim lacquered in coral red, gold cagework mounts, engraved signature: Cartier, French post-1919 control mark

Given as a Christmas present in 1926 by Baron James Armand de Rothschild (1878-1957) of Waddesdon Manor. 
According to Judy Rudoe, in November 1926 the Baron commissioned 34 vases in four designs from Cartier. As they were to be Christmas presents the time pressure must have been enormous and only from such a very important client would a large special order have been accepted so late.
Each of the vases contained a novelty rose spray attached to a card inscribed

THE MAGIC BAROMETER FLOWER
This little flower you mast grant
Is something of a sensitive plant.
Place it in the open air.
T'is pink when stormy, blue when fair,
And turns a lovely lilac hue,
When undecided which t'will do.

Apparently some of the lacquer panels used were already in stock but according to the stock books others were purchased specifically for this commission from L. Michon Frère and the Compagnie de la Chine et des Indes. Different quantities were made of the four models (ten of the present example), presumably so that family and close friends would not all receive identical gifts. Each, however, was inspired by the forms of 19th century lacque burgauté snuff bottles made in Japan for the local Japanese market. The Cartier Collection possesses another example of the present model although it is not known to whom it was given. The Lindemann Collection has one of the other models, still with its original red leather case (with which each was supplied). 

Judy Rudoe, Cartier 1900-1939, exhibition catalogue, Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, 1997;Exhibition catalogue:
Reflections of elegance, Cartier jewels from the Lindemann Collection, New Orleans Museum of Art, 1988

An interesting and historic piece. Lacking base and cloth flower (see footnote) of which there are dusty remains stuck to the lining of the top cavity. Rusted metal pin next to join on base rim. One neck panel cracked and one side panel with small internal crack. Another with small scratch to surface. Some losses to mother of pearl particularly on the side panels but generally good impression. Would benefit from professional cleaning.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. 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 any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
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."