Edwardian Art Nouveau Filigree Evening Purse Circa 1895–1910 jackpot

An extraordinary survivor from the Belle Époque, this rare Art Nouveau filigree dance pursedates to the turn of the 20th century and embodies the romantic, organic design language of the era. Crafted in pierced gilt brass with flowing vines, whiplash curves, and peacock-eye motifs, it reflects the same aesthetic world as Lalique, Tiffany, and the great Art Nouveau ateliers.

The purse is richly adorned with amethyst-toned faceted glass stones and seed pearls, and opens to reveal its original hand-gathered silk lining and glass vanity mirror with safety chain — a charming detail once used to discreetly check powder or rouge between dances.

This style was the minaudière of 1900, worn to the opera, theater, and evening salons, carried on the wrist by its braided metal chain or clipped to a jeweled chatelaine at the waist. Inside, a woman would have kept her calling cards, coins, lace handkerchief, scent vial, and small cosmetics — elegant essentials of Edwardian society.

Today, this piece stands as wearable Art Nouveau sculpture, a true collector’s object and a breathtaking example of antique fashion history.

Details:

• Origin: Europe

• Date: Circa 1895–1910

• Materials: Gilt brass filigree, glass stones, seed pearls, silk lining

• Features: Original interior mirror with safety chain, braided metal wrist chain, decorative tassel

• Condition: Beautiful antique condition with age-appropriate wear to the silk lining

Purse measures 3 x 4, dangle Metal fringe measures 3 inches and braided metal handle measures 5 inches. Total bag measures 1 foot. 

A museum-quality accessory and a once-in-a-lifetime find — available exclusively at Vavra New York.

OHEKA