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Powder Compact - Officer's Cap, circa 1914-1918
Reg. No: HT 28181
- Summary:
- Alternative Name(s): Face Powder
Powder compact based on a military peaked cap. Its original powder puff is missing. It appears to be World War I-era, based on the style of the cap. The compact has no known provenance. It may have been a souvenir sent from a war zone. It would have been a constant reminder of a loved one at war, and a public statement about connections to war.
Compressed powder was developed as early as 1840 by a Mr Prosser of Birmingham, England (Putnam's Home Cyclopedia ...G.P. Putnam & Co, 1852, p.383), although was not popularized until the early 20th century. Other examples of powder compacts in the shape of World War I caps or helmets are known. - Description:
- Powder compact in shape of officer?s cap, hinged. Opens out to reveal a mirror in the lid, and textile lining. The shape of a boomerang and the continent of Australia are in relief on the base of the compact. Tasmania is missing.
| Discipline: | History |
| Dimensions: | 22 mm (Height), 70 mm (Width) |
| Dimension Comment: | Circular format |
More information
| Tagged with: | world war i 1914-1918, military history, military ornaments, cosmetics |
| Themes this item is part of: | Public Life & Institutions Collection |
| Primary Classification: | MILITARY HISTORY |
| Secondary Classification: | Civilian Life |
| Tertiary Classification: | souvenirs |
| Inscriptions: | Front, inscribed on badge of cap: "AIF" |
| Date Made: | 1914-1918 |
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