An imposing cylindrical lithographed metal box , bearing the Vite et Bien brand, manufactured at the Ivry factory (Seine). This model is distinguished by its exotic iconography, highly characteristic of colonial advertising imagery from the first half of the 20th century. A stylized portrait of a Black woman, wearing a turban and pearl necklace, framed by foliage, appears in the center of the lid. The inscription "guaranteed with pure turpentine" suggests a likely use in cleaning, waxing, or polishing. A striking piece, both a testament to its era and an exceptional graphic object.
✦ Origin: France, Ivry-sur-Seine ✦ Estimated period: Circa 1930 ✦ Dimensions: 10 × 4 cm ✦ Material: Lithographed metal ✦ Condition: Even patina, visible wear on the lid
An object at the crossroads of graphic colonialism, industrial history, and French domestic material culture.
