A very rare example of a Russian ladies purse that dates to the 1730 to 1750 period. Please see its peach colored twin held by The Metropolitan Museum, New York, part of the collection of Russian Noblewoman Natalia de Shabelsky - Accession number 2009.300.1730 The museum tells us that such luxurious purses were often given as gifts either for social or diplomatic occasions.

Our pale blue silk example is showing its vast age but we think that it still reveals many echoes of its luxurious past. The shield/lyre shape is very pleasing, with the embroidered design being the same to both front and back face. We see a pale blue woven silk ground profusely covered in raised/padded motifs which are then couched in silver gilt wrapped white silk thread. We also see embellishments of metal passing and metal file thread in and around the organic central flower/seed head design. The purse fronts are joined by their original pinky/coral red silk faille fabric gussets. This purse also has just about retained its original finger ring and rear tassel. The purse lining is original, lined in cream woven silk.

Size: 4.75" (12 cm) tall by 3.5" (9 cm) at its widest point.

Condition: Beautiful faded grandeur. This purse is nearly 300 years old, please make use of our many images as they form a vital part of the description. The blue silk ground is perfectly sound but darkened a little. The metal work embroidery was once sparkling gold from the silver thread being gilded, this has now dulled with age over the centuries. The original brilliance is more evident to the reverse face when held to the light. Some missing metal wrapping to the raised applique edges. The original blue velvet ribbon handle is very aged and shredded. The metal wrapped finger ring and tassel are equally very worn. Stating the obvious here, but this 300 yrs old purse must not be used.

Shipping: Free Air Tracked, Signature upon Delivery postage to UK, mainland USA and mainland EU only. We do not deliver to PO Boxes.

Please stop a while and browse our other antique purses and costume accessories. BUY with confidence, we only sell antique, original examples. We regularly supply film, TV sets, discerning collectors and museums with some of our gorgeous examples.

Don't miss out, layaway for 6 months to make this rare treasure yours.