Lady's ruby and sapphire vanity case, Boucheron, 1940s

The rectangular case decorated to the front with a pierced design of birds amongst flowering vines, accented with collet-set cabochon rubies and sapphires, opening to reveal two mirrors, a powder compartment, a lipstick holder, a cigarette holder, a matchbook holder and a cigarette compartment, signed Boucheron Paris, numbered, French assay marks, measuring approximately 129 x 92 x 21mm, gross weight approximately 511 grams.

Rubies of Burmese origin cannot be imported into the US; this piece may contain a ruby of Burmese origin and therefore may not be able to be imported into the US. Certification of non-Burmese origin is required before the import of rubies into the US. Please see our Important Notices and contact the jewellery department for further information. French assay marks for silver. Pierced panel stamped 'or argent' for gilt silver. Signed Boucheron Paris, numbered BT No 875012 and 82955. Partial maker's marks. Sapphires mid blue; rubies purplish-red; transparent, all with typical inclusions visible under magnification, and light scratches to stone surfaces. Light scratches and areas of tarnish to metal consistent with age and wear. Mirror with minor abrasions. All hinges secure, box and compartment lids close securely. Tops to lipstick and cigarette holder container secure. Cigarette holder intact. Lipstick slider intact. Gross weight approximately 511 grams.
"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."