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1968 sterling silver compact mirror created by Adler's for the Mystic Krewe of Comus, a New Orleans Mardi Gras organization.
The design on the lid commemorates the 250th anniversary of the founding of New Orleans (1718–1968) and features Philippe II, Duke of Orléans, who served as the Regent of France from 1715 to 1723.
Historical Significance
The Subject: Philippe II, Duke of Orléans, was the nephew of King Louis XIV and ruled as Regent while King Louis XV was a minor.
The Connection: The city of New Orleans was named in his honor in 1718.
The Theme: For their 1968 carnival season, the Mystic Krewe of Comus chose the "History of New Orleans" as their theme, making this compact a high-end souvenir from that year's festivities.
Item Details
Material: Usually sterling silver (look for a "Sterling" hallmark, often near the hinge).
Maker: Adler's, a prominent New Orleans jeweler.
Design: Features a bust of the Duke in armor, his family crest, and the circular inscription: "HISTORY OF NEW ORLEANS • DUC D'ORLEANS • REGENT OF FRANCE" along with the date "1968."
New Orleans, a city rich in history and culture, was founded in 1718 by the French Mississippi Company, under the direction of Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne de Bienville. It was named in honor of Philippe II, Duke of Orléans, who was the Regent of France at the time. The city served as the capital of French Louisiana until 1763, when it was ceded to Spain. Its strategic location at the mouth of the Mississippi River made it a vital port and a center for trade and commerce throughout its history. The city's unique blend of French, Spanish, African, and American influences is reflected in its architecture, music, and cuisine.
The Duke of Orléans, Philippe II, was a significant figure in French history, serving as Regent of France during the minority of Louis XV from 1715 to 1723. His regency was a period of political intrigue and cultural flourishing, marked by the development of the Mississippi Bubble, a speculative financial scheme. Medallions and commemorative items featuring historical figures and events are common ways to celebrate significant anniversaries or to honor important personalities. The year 1968 likely marks a specific anniversary related to the Duke of Orléans or the history of New Orleans.
This is talking about a coin but this is a compact it does have patina & scratches from over the years the powder buff is still inside never filled with compact. A great collectible to own does contain sterling Marlo on the back hinge along with marking on the back of the compact. I have not tried to clean it. This piece was bought from an Estate sale on the coast about 40 miles from New Orleans from a sizable collection of rare pieces from New Orleans .
Size: Approximately 2 1/2 inches in diameter and 5/8 inches thick.
Vintage 1968 Sterling Silver Comus Compact in original, unpolished condition. It features a heavy, dark patina and natural toning that settles beautifully into the relief. The surface shows faint handling marks and minor scuffing consistent with its age, but the central imagery and commemorative text remain sharp and well-defined."
A wonderful collector’s piece of New Orleans I haven’t tried to clean it any just wiped it down
Mastercab- 20
