This is an Edwardian Gilt Silver minaudiere or compendium, by the renowned silversmith William Neale, & fully hallmarked (x5) for Chester 1909.

The rectangular case has a ribbed decoration to the exterior and is opened via a sprung push button & thumb lift, to reveal a vermeil interior.

The left hand side of the interior contains two hinged compartments, which open independently of each other via a thumb lift to each edge. The smaller compartment would probably be used for rouge etc, & the larger one for powder.

There is a central leaf (which hinges open from the right hand side of the case via a flush catch) consisting of a Silver frame containing a mirror on one side & an ivory sheet, for use as an Aide-memoire, on the other.

The right hand side of the case has a large, open compartment with a decorative trefoil detail, sprung clasp, which would probably be used for holding a ladies handkerchief or perhaps calling cards, etc.

The exterior top edge of the case has an internal, tubular compartment which contains a little Silver propelling pencil, which is removed with the aid of it's attached suspension ring. The pencil is in working order but would need a new lead & the gilding is a little rubbed

The front of the case is fully hallmarked with the makers mark 'W.N' (William Neale), the lion passant (925 Sterling), the wheatsheafs (Chester), & the date letter 'J' (1909 - 10). The lion passant & date letter are repeated to the rear of the case, the mirror / Aide-mémoire frame, & to both interior lids of the front compartments.

Condition is Good with no dents or repairs. The exterior gilding is rubbed in places, but the interior gilding is Fine.

The case measures approx 3 3/8" x 2 1/2" (approx 8.5cm x 6.4cm) & weighs a substantial 170.8g, 6.02oz, or 5.49 Troy.