Vintage c. 1935-1938 Koret metallic brocade evening clutch with gilt brass frame is piped in bronze cord and features a Deco foldover clasp set with 2 square-cut topaz rhinestones.

The rich brocade, in a sinuous ogee pattern with quatrefoil medallions, employs an artfully tonal colorway in pale to deep tones of gold and copper.

Purse interior is lined in pale gold satin, with three gold-piped open sidewall pockets sized perfectly for evening necessities such as compact, mirror and small comb. (Koret introduced a slew of brocade, lamé, and metallic kid or snakeskin evening vanity and carryall bags in the mid- to late 30s, often with matching accessories; please see photo # for some period examples).

Lining is embossed “Koret” in gold lettering, along with the company’s famous gazelle logo. Richard Koret, who came to America as a 9 year old Russian orphan, began designing handbags in 1924. By the 1930s, Koret handbags—often made in exotic skins and boasting of their silk linings--were sought after as paragons of style and quality; in 1938 Richard Koret was the first (perhaps the only?) handbag designer to win the coveted Neiman Marcus fashion award.

The measurements of this elegant Koret clutch from the company’s heyday are 4.5” high by 6.5” wide at the center, with a depth of 1”.

Very good condition, with the brocade exterior in clean, excellent shape but 4 tiny reddish smudges and/or dots (lipstick or rouge?) on the lining, and finish wear to the underside of the clasp (not visible when purse is carried). Photos #5 and #7 show these issues.

Proud Member of the VFG Vintage Fashion Guild