Long Purse

Currently not on view

Long Purse

Late 19th century

Artist/maker unknown, American

Although miser’s purses usually have slit openings and sliding rings for closures, clasps sometimes substituted for these fasteners. As noted in Godey’s Lady’s Book’s November 1879 issue, clasps created “two distinct purses in one.” Few of this style survive, suggesting that this method was not commonly used.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Title:

Long Purse

Date:

Late 19th century

Artist:

Artist/maker unknown, American

Medium:

Crocheted magenta silk; steel frame, chain handle, beads, and drop decorations

Dimensions:

11 × 2 5/8 × 3/4 inches (27.9 × 6.7 × 1.9 cm) Length (excluding tassels): 8 3/8 inches (21.3 cm)

Classification:

Costume (including accessories)

Credit Line:

Gift of Miss Elinor E. Curwen and Mrs. Edward F. McKeen, 1969

Accession Number:

1969-56-57

Geography:

Made in United States, North and Central America

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Currently not on view