Material: Petit Point, Moire Satin
Size: Purse Body + Frame Length ~ 5 & ½ inches, Width ~ 7 inches,
Overall
Length inc/chain ~ apx. 11 & 1/4 inches
Quantity: 1
The brilliant, rich, aesthetic multi-floral motif decorating this vintage petit point
bag is incredibly fine, detailed and as realistic as a botanical drawing.
The frame, as well as the chain appear to be brass. Note the pierced clasp, carved,
etched frame and very ornate, similarly etched fancy chain handle. Although similar
petit point motifs were made for a number of years, the frame and chain detail indicate
that this is an earlier handbag, likely dating to the Edwardian era, or just slightly
earlier/later.
This bag does not have a label, but based on the distinctive frame and chain design,
which was typical of high quality period Austrian handbags, coupled with the extremely
fine petit point, also typical of fine Viennese needlework, we believe this bag was
most assuredly made in Austria, likely Vienna. Very fine petit-point was also made
in France and Germany, but the French and German period purse frames were somewhat
different than those made in Austria.
I almost went blind while trying to count the stitches per inch, but after counting
several times to ensure accuracy I believe that there are apx. 32 stitches per inch.
This calculates to over 1000 stitches per square inch and explains why the detail
of each flower, petal and leaf is so incredible. Additionally, this handbag has
been very well cared for, so the colors in the multi floral design, which decorates
both the front and back of the purse, as well as encircles the perimeter, is not
faded and retains amazing richness and vibrancy.
Purse interior is lined with a slightly peachy hue silky satin moire or faille fabric.
There are three interior pockets which would have been used for a mirror, compact
and comb or lipstick.
This hand bag is in exceptionally nice vintage estate condition and appears to be
completely original, including, lining, chain, clasp, jump rings, etc.
We see no problems or issues of any kind with bag exterior. Frame and chain both
appear very good, free of verdigris and damage. We see no loose petit point stitches,
no stains, no wear to edges and both needle work and lining remain firmly attached
to fame.
Moire fabric interior is quite clean and nice, free of the commonly found lipstick
stains and no tears or other distress. There are a couple of very tiny,extremely
light specks to two of the inside pockets. In my opinion these are so minor and
insignificant, however I have not tried to clean, so if they cannot be forgiven it
is likely cleaning would resolve.
As mentioned above, the colors in the bag remain very rich, with both front and back
showing the same vibrancy, there is no fading to one side, which is quite commonly
seen in old textile handbags.
Overall an exceptionally nice condition, extremely well made, fine Edwardian Viennese
handmade petit point purse. Note: floral design on both front and back of purse.
