Purse

PeriodCirca 1920 - 1925

Place MadeFrance

MediumGlass and metallic beads, corded satin, mother of pearl

Dimensions4.5 × 5.13 × 0.38 in. (11.4 × 13 × 1 cm)

SignedA small gold and ivory silk woven label is sewn to the inside back of the purse, reading "Made in France for Abraham & Straus, Inc., Brooklyn."

ClassificationsCostume, Women's

Credit LineGift of Mrs. Bertram Mount, 1968

Object number1996.515

DescriptionA woman's small purse, rectangular, of sturdy corded ivory satin with a cotton inner lining, entirely covered with red, gold, and blue beads in a stylized pattern of lotus flowers. The purse has a narrow top flap with a single mother-of-pearl button and loop closure. A small wrist strap of pale yellow chamois leather beaded with blue and gold beads is attached to the left and right top edges of the bag. Beaded loop fringe is sewn along the bottom edge of the purse.
Curatorial RemarksThe bold, colorful, and exotic decorative style of ancient Egypt was an influence in both European and American decorative arts from the late 18th century, when Napoleon Bonaparte's Egyptian Campaign from 1798 to 1801 focused the world's attention on the area's ancient art and artifacts. Egyptian motifs appeared frequently and at intervals in everything from furniture to fashion. On November 4, 1922, archaeologist Howard Carter (1874-1939) discovered stone steps leading the tomb of pharaoh Tutankhamun. Although robbed in antiquity, the tomb represented the most complete ancient Egyptian tomb burial ever discovered. The craze for all things Egyptian was almost immediate. Egyptian motifs including papyrus, lotus flowers, sphinxes, hieroglyphic writing, and other elements were used in fashion, accessories, and jewelry. This beaded purse, which was most likely an evening accessory, features simple yet recognizable lotus blossoms in bold red and yellow on a deep blue ground.NotesThis lovely little purse was owned and used by Englishtown resident Sarah Coakley (1865 - 1951). Her sister, Mrs. Bertram Mount, donated the accessory to the Historical Association in 1968.

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