Art Deco Era Floral Beaded Evening Bag
Decorative art/Textile; handheld clutch or reticule with fringe • Unidentified artisan; likely European (French or Austrian) given the high-quality micro-bead work common in these regions during the period
Style & Movement
Art Deco with transitional Victorian/Edwardian floral influence
Medium & Technique
Tiny glass seed beads (sable or 'micro' beads) woven or crocheted with thread; features a button closure and beaded fringe
Creation Period
Circa 1920s (Art Deco period)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 6 x 8 inches excluding fringe; rectangular landscape format with a top-fold flap
Subject Description
Rectangular bag featuring a deep burgundy/red field with stylized floral motifs (possibly roses or lilies) in silver and pale pink; framed by a geometric border in gold and black beads; includes a linear beaded fringe and a small pink cabochon-style button closure
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair/Poor; significant structural deterioration visible
Estimated Market Value
$50 - $150 USD (valuation is heavily suppressed by poor condition)
Auction Estimate
$40 - $80 USD
Provenance History
Unknown; likely a personal accessory passed down or acquired through vintage textile markets; lacks visible labels or maker's marks
Art Historical Significance
Representative of the 1920s fashion for beaded accessories; illustrates the period's preference for intricate hand-work and the shift toward geometric Art Deco compositions while retaining floral naturalism
Notable Features
Features exceptionally fine micro-beads which are indicative of higher quality 1920s production compared to standard glass beads; the contrast between the geometric frame and the organic flowers is a classic early Deco design trait
Condition Issues
Major losses to the beaded fringe (missing sections); structural splitting and bead loss along the fold and side seams; thread degradation leading to loose beads; metal oxidation or tarnishing on darker beads
Conservation Recommendations
Professional restoration required to stabilize losing beads and repair seams; store flat in acid-free tissue to prevent further strain on threads; avoid hanging by the fringe; display in a UV-protected environment