A bijoux French silver chatelaine or sovereign purse, crafted by skilled silversmiths, and adorned with four dangling spheres. A great addition to a collection, or a beautiful accessory on special occasions.
Delicate silver purses were attached to a Lady’s chatelaine, or belt, in the late 1800s and early 1900s, to carry a handkerchief and coins. They were typically carried by the upperclass and with evening attire.
This tactile accessory is in good vintage condition, unpolished, with a natural patina. It has a secure kiss clasp, on an ornate frame with delicate accents. There is an original single ring below the clasp, which would have been used to attach the purse to the chatelaine. On the ring there is an indistinct hallmark, with another on the clasp, above the “kiss” scroll. It has four dangling spheres at the bottom of the chainmail mesh.
Always a fashionable piece, with variations of this design carried on through the 50s to 80s, due to its timeless character, and size. It would make a unique gift as “something old” for a bride to house a lucky sixpence, a statement item to any evening attire, or as an addition to an existing collection.