Rare Vintage 1950s Pygmalion Globe Powder Compact, Gilt World Map, Original Sifter and Puffer. Unused Condition.

A genuine mid-century powder compact by Pygmalion, made in England circa 1950, modelled as a miniature terrestrial globe. The exterior is finished in bright gilt-tone metal and engraved in fine detail with a full world map. The case shows the map of the world with the names of many countries and cities as they appeared at the time of manufacture which have since changed, such as Ceylon, Rhodesia, Bombay, Persia and others. A small button stud at the "equator" operates the spring-hinged clasp.

Opening the compact reveals a bevelled mirror set into the lid, the original cream celluloid interior powder well, gauze sifter screen (with pull tab) and its original velour puff stamped "Pygmalion" in gold script.

Pygmalion was the trademark of S. D. Rand Ltd of London, registered in 1942 and active through the 1940s and into the 1950s. The globe compact is one of the brand's best-known and most collected novelty designs, alongside their piano-shaped "Sonata" compacts and flower-basket vanities.

Marked: "PYGMALION No.1960 MADE IN ENGLAND PATENT PENDING" impressed to the base of the interior well.
Dimensions: Approx. 5.5 cm (2¼ in) diameter x 5.5 cm (2¼ in) high.
Date: Circa 1950.

Condition: Good unused condition commensurate with age. Gilt finish bright overall with light surface wear consistent with handling. Mirror clear and undamaged. Clasp and hinge both function correctly. Sifter screen intact. Original puff included. Please study the photographs closely as they form part of the description.