Now this is a purse.

A spectacular antique metal mesh chatelaine purse featuring an incredibly ornate frame, richly detailed hardware, and a leather-lined interior. The finely linked metal mesh body has a wonderfully fluid drape and beautiful aged patina that only comes from genuine age.

The elaborate frame is decorated with scrolling foliate relief, while the dramatic handle features a wonderfully Gothic grotesque or mask motif surrounded by sweeping scrollwork. Above it, an ornate ring connects the purse to an equally decorative belt clip/chatelaine attachment, allowing it to have originally been suspended from a waistband or belt.

The combination of intricate metalwork, sculptural hardware, mesh construction, and leather interior makes this an especially striking example of an early ladies’ accessory—and one that is just as fabulous displayed today as it would have been worn.

Details:

● Antique metal mesh purse

● Chatelaine/belt-hung style

● Finely linked metal mesh body

● Ornate embossed and cast metal frame

● Elaborate scrolling handle

● Grotesque/mask figural detail

● Decorative belt clip and suspension ring

● Leather interior

● Beautiful aged metal patina

● Late Victorian/early 20th-century styling

● Unmarked maker unless otherwise noted

Measures - 10” x 5”

Antique condition with age-related patina, oxidation, finish wear, and expected wear to the metal and leather interior. Please review photographs carefully for condition and completeness.

A tiny purse with an absolutely unreasonable amount of hardware and drama—which is precisely why we love her.