An exceptional circa 1890–1910 chatelaine purse designed to hang from a belt by its ornate fleur-de-lis clip. Silver-colored openwork metal lies over the original purple silk lining, creating a vivid interplay of color, pattern, and movement.
Rather than conventional ring mesh, the purse body is assembled from pierced rectangular stations linked into flexible, radiating rows. A round medallion with raised flowers and triangular openwork centers the design. Six graduated drops along the lower edge end in small trident-like forms; their balanced arrangement appears intentional.
The shaped frame is decorated with raised repoussé-style scrollwork. A substantial chain handle connects it to the fleur-de-lis belt clip. The clasp opens and closes smoothly and securely.
The unmarked, silver-colored metal is nonmagnetic. Its precise alloy and surface composition have not been determined. Similar period purses were made from German silver and related copper alloys, but this example is not being attributed to a particular alloy.
Very good antique condition. No linked stations appear to be missing, and the frame and clasp remain sound. The original purple silk lining has begun to fray in places and should be handled gently. Please refer to the photographs for its condition.
- Circa 1890–1910
- Late Victorian to early Edwardian
- Silver-colored nonmagnetic metal
- Original purple silk lining
- Fleur-de-lis belt clip
- Purse: 5 1/4 × 4 inches
- Chain handle: 6 1/2 inches
- Clip: 1 1/2 × 1 1/4 inches
- Weight: approximately 6 ounces or 170 grams
- Unsigned