Unsigned - 钱包

ANTIQUE & VINTAGE PURSES (10) 1900 - 1950's
Various materials: Metal-chain-mesh, steel, beaded fabric, embroidered.

The collection consists of ten assorted miniature purses decorated with glass beads on fabric, metal chain-mesh, embroidered crepe and a "miser's" purse of steel on fabric. From early in the 18th century until well into the 19th century, before clothing had pockets, a miser's purse was used to carry coins. Such an antique purse has a section at both ends to hold the coins and an opening in the middle into which the coins can be added. This example has been stitched closed in the middle and is missing the middle steel ring, otherwise is in excellent condition. .

Small purses were made at the end of the 19th century and early in the 20th century to contain a few small coins, often added to a chatelaine. The smaller purses could also be used to hang on the belt of a large folk-costume doll, these would be tiny, approx. 5/6cm. high. Small purses were also called "Church Purses" as they were often used for a church visit containing a few coins for the collection plate. The longest in this collection is the miser's purse at 38cm. long, including steel tassels, and the smallest is a crepe example of 6 x 6cm. with embroidered flower design. As part of the collection are three chain-mesh purses from early in the 20th century, of which one gold-coloured example has a spring top which can be opened and closed to take or add the coins. A quality gold-plated chain-mesh purse still has its original leather inside-purse and two synthetic "diamonds" in the clasp (see photos). A colourful addition to this collection are a number of vintage purses from around 1950 made of beads on fabric, probably used as church purses.

Antique and vintage handwork is today much sought after by collectors.
The collection is in very good condition with, considering the age and materials used, very little wear and tear, and will be a varied and colourful addition to an antique or vintage collection.

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