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This is an exceptionally rare vintage Max Factor cosmetics department-store display, complete with its original advertising panel, shade illustrations, countertop base, and iconic raised “MAX FACTOR — the world’s leading make-up authority” sign.
The display has the wonderful presence of an authentic survivor from the golden age of American department-store cosmetics. Rather than looking newly manufactured, it has the honest character you would expect from a piece that spent its life in a working retail environment.
Condition
Vintage condition with considerable age and surface wear — please study all photographs carefully.
The piece displays discoloration, residue, scuffs, scratches, small marks, and general surface wear throughout. There are areas of aging to the finish and advertising materials, including some fading/discoloration consistent with decades of age and previous retail use.
The original display graphics show signs of age and wear but remain wonderfully evocative and are a major part of the appeal of this piece. The cosmetics-themed illustrations and vintage typography provide an incredible glimpse into how Max Factor presented its products to shoppers during the era.
The display has not been cosmetically restored, allowing it to retain the authentic character and patina of an original vintage store fixture.
There may be additional small imperfections, marks, residue, or signs of age not specifically mentioned above. Please consider the photographs an important part of the description.
Why This Is Special
This isn’t simply a vintage Max Factor advertisement — it is a three-dimensional piece of American retail history.
Large original cosmetics displays like this were functional advertising pieces designed to live on department-store counters, attract attention, and sell makeup. Most were discarded when the advertising campaign ended, making surviving examples particularly exciting for collectors of vintage cosmetics, Max Factor memorabilia, department-store displays, advertising, Hollywood beauty history, and mid-century Americana.
