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Historic Costume | Fine and Decorative Arts
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Purse
Object/Artifact
Beaded purse made of 2 plain-weave cotton or linen. Trapezoidal-shaped sections covered with beaded patterns are sewn on. Crystals decorate the ground of the purse. One with a lavish cornucopia, and the other with a rose on a field of buds. The top is decorated with a golden yellow dagged border centered with a Greek key motif. The edges were finished with a once-green decorative braid. Interlined with buckram fabric. Lined with red silk surah forming a pocket on each side. The braid was sewn on after the red lining was installed. Unsure how the bag part was attached-at first. It is speculated that the braid and silk were a 1920s re-purposing. Speculated the beads are German as many beaded purses were.
G2010.131
Bruce and Susan Greene Costume Collection
Adult, Female
Accessory
Historic Costume
1825 - 1840
American