the circular aperture with reeded bezel within translucent light blue enamel over rinceau engraving, beaded border, wood surround, back and strut, struck with workmaster's initials, 88 standard, containing a photograph of Queen Mary

This object was very likely a gift to Mary, Duchess of Roxburghe, from her godmother Queen Mary, for whom she was named.  The queen's keen interest in Fabergé's work, which she shared with her mother-in-law Queen Alexandra and their Imperial Russian relations, formed a central part of her collecting passions.

Members of the British Royal Family were frequent visitors to Fabergé's London shop at 173 Old Bond Street.  F🍷ollowing the Russian Revolution in 1917, Queen Mary's purchases, mainly from the London dealer Wartski, influenced a generation of collectors and kept the mystique of Fabergé alive.  In the 1930s, King George V and Queen Mary added significantly to their Fabergé collection by purchasing three Imperial Easter Eggs which had formerly belonged to the King's cousin, Empress Alexandra Feodorovna.🙈 

Henry Bainbridge, who had managed Fabergé's London business, recalled one of his meetings with Queen Mary to discuss Her Majesty's collection. 'Taking up one of the King's cigarette cases, the Queen caressed it for a moment and then said this: "There is one thing about all Fabergé pieces, they are so satisfying"' (Peter Carl Fabergé, London, 1949, p. 109).  It was a satisfaction which the Quee🦩n often shared with those dear to her, in this case presumably her god-daughter, with gifts large and small.      

Excellent condition. The wood, particularly the strut, with very minor scratches consistent with handling. The screws have been out. The raised areas of the gilding very slightly worn.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."