This beautiful silk brocade purse, dating from the 19th century, is a wonderful example of a fashion accessory that itself has a fascinating history. The types, indeed the very use, of handbags over the centuries not only reveal much about evolving fashion styles but also provide insight into the changing roles of, and attitudes towards, women. When women were largely confined to the home (other than poor women who had to work in the field), there was little need of a decorative purse to carry anything beyond a calling card and handkerchief. As women's independence grew, dress pockets and small reticules became inadequate to the task of carrying a women's increasing necessities. A "handbag" became an essential accessory and, as such, became subject to changing fashion styles as frequently as clothing. Over the decades and well before the 20th century, purses were made of tooled leather, silk brocade, fine beading, crocheted silk, metal mesh, etc., and styles were equally varied, from small miser's purses to oversized beaded bags, from wristlets to handled bags, etc. This is a silk brocade bag from the late Victorian to early Edwardian era, circa 1890-1910. Considering that it is more than a century old - amazing! - it is in remarkable condition. The original silk brocade still shimmers with the gold metallic thread (on a dark greenish black background); there are no holes, rips, or fraying on the fine silk fabric. The silk handle has hand-stitched decoration and, given its delicacy and that it was the area of most handling, does have some fraying, not visible when held. (I suggest expert sewing there and one small area where the handle meets the bag, to avoid further fraying.) The top piece is silk brocade framed in a beautiful repoussé brass ring. The inside is stunning, too, with the original mirror surrounded by metallic silk brocade and embellished by a charming silk rose trim that also lines the inside rim of the bag. Not surprisingly, the delicate silk lining has shredded; since I recommend that this historic, delicate purse be viewed as a collector's piece and displayed, not used, I advise leaving it as is, not replacing it. I've spent many decades acquiring my purse collection and have never seen an example like this. If it weren't time to start parting with beloved pieces from my collection, I would not be offering this fabulous piece of fashion history! Size (approximate): Total height 9" (handle 5", body 4"); 5 ½" across; fitted top 3 ¾". Details: Silk brocade, gold metallic thread, original mirror Condition: Excellent vintage/very good vintage. A few frayed areas on handle; inner lining shredded. 50% of all proceeds will be donated to wildlife conservation organizations. Photos and text may not be reproduced without permission from Iconistas. We value you as a customer so feel free to contact us if you would like more information or have any questions.
