Preliminary identification

Wadsworth-marked rhinestone barrel vanity case

Photo reference

5 uploaded photos

Overview

Appears to be a gold-tone combination vanity case with pink-and-clear rhinestone ends, mirror, powder compartment, lipstick tube, and comb.

Story

Midcentury vanity cases packed a dressing table into a handbag: powder, lipstick, and a comb for touch-ups away from home.

Maker / Origin

Wadsworth made American compact cases, combining practical metalwork with fashionable decoration.

Condition & Value

Surface scratches and small finish spots are visible; accessories remain present, supporting value. Preliminary resale estimate; original embellishment, working closures, and retained fittings drive value.

Full Research

See what it's actually worth.

Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

Your first full report is on us.

See sold comps, value drivers, and where to sell. One complimentary report, no card required.

Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps

Regional auction· Jun 2024

$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024

$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024

$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023

$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023

$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.