CANVAS WORK, BAG

This dainty evening bag, hand embroidered probably by a genteel lady in England in mid to late 19th century.

The Berlin wool work bag worked in geometric design from the mid 19th has a 20mm gusset. The engraved metal frame is embellished with glass seed beads and there is a beaded metallic clasp closure. Gilt metal chain handle.

The cream silk lining has a small pocket on each side.

In late 19th C, patterns in women’s magazines provided opportunity for ladies to show their embroidery skills at the same time stitching an important fashion accessory. At that time, ladies had several bags one for each occasion during the day. With the development of towns and prevalence of pickpockets, metal frames with chain handles replaced the fabric handles.