An exceptionally rare and refined reticule-style miniature purse, this French jewel of the Belle Époque is crafted in richly toned 18k yellow gold. The body is composed of intricate woven chainmail mesh, supple in form and luxurious in weight, suspended from an ornate hinged clasp.
The clasp is masterfully adorned with a cluster of fine half pearls arranged in a dome, accented with alternating rose-cut diamonds (note: 4 stones missing), adding a touch of celestial sparkle. The lid opens via a clever rotating mechanism that expands into a delicate accordion shape—an ingenious design feature rarely seen today.
Originally designed to hang from a gold chain, this objet de vertu served both as an accessory and a status symbol, blending high jewelry with ornamental craftsmanship. These gold mesh purses were often used by aristocratic women to carry perfumed handkerchiefs or coins.
Material: 18k (750/1000) yellow gold
Weight: 65.2g
Length: 9 cm
Origin: France, last quarter of the 19th century
Historical Note:
This piece is a quintessential example of late 19th-century French jewelry artistry, combining mechanical ingenuity with opulent materials. Today, examples in this condition are vanishingly rare.
An exceptionally rare and refined reticule-style miniature purse, this French jewel of the Belle Époque is crafted in richly toned 18k yellow gold. The body is composed of intricate woven chainmail mesh, supple in form and luxurious in weight, suspended from an ornate hinged clasp.
The clasp is masterfully adorned with a cluster of fine half pearls arranged in a dome, accented with alternating rose-cut diamonds (note: 4 stones missing), adding a touch of celestial sparkle. The lid opens via a clever rotating mechanism that expands into a delicate accordion shape—an ingenious design feature rarely seen today.
Originally designed to hang from a gold chain, this objet de vertu served both as an accessory and a status symbol, blending high jewelry with ornamental craftsmanship. These gold mesh purses were often used by aristocratic women to carry perfumed handkerchiefs or coins.
Material: 18k (750/1000) yellow gold
Weight: 65.2g
Length: 9 cm
Origin: France, last quarter of the 19th century
Historical Note:
This piece is a quintessential example of late 19th-century French jewelry artistry, combining mechanical ingenuity with opulent materials. Today, examples in this condition are vanishingly rare.
