Antique 19th century French .800 silver powder compact. The case features serpentine shaping with raised scalloped corners, richly decorated with engraving. To the center is an engraved architectural vignette. Opening to reveal a gilt vermeil interior with beveled glass mirror and original sifter. In overall good antique condition with general wear commensurate with age and use. Measures 3 1/8" x 2" x 7/8" height. Hallmarked with the French mercury head mark for exports that were tax exempted, used from 1840 to 1879. Bearing the return mark of a hare's head, this mark was introduced in 1888 to be struck on items bearing the Mercury Head mark as proof that the duty from which they had been exempted on export had been collected and paid upon re-importation. Bearing a maker's mark for silversmith Jean Cheroux, this mark was in use from 1854-1862.