CHAIN, BAG

In the late 1800s, the mediaeval look was all the rage, so chainmail-like coin purses that attached to a chatelaine were stylish accessories for Victorian ladies. The first bags were made by hand from interlocking metal rings. Companies sent the links to housewives, who assembled the mesh at home. Later machines mass produced the meshes.

This purse, from around 1870, is composed of flat metal silver links, has an ornate framed lid of fine metal filigree with turquoise beads, closing with a twisted knob. Inside the lid is inset with a mirror. A metal chain has a clasp at the top to attach to a belt or chatelaine. There are little silver balls at base.

Ladies in 18th century were heavily corseted, creating a very slender form. The small bag attached to her waist or carried on her finger, drew attention to her slender waist and well-cared for hands and wrist – emphasising a lady of leisure.