Classic silver metal mesh vanity bag c. 1920 exhibits many desirable characteristics. The Van Dyke style pointed fringe surrounds a round metal bottom 2 1/4 inches in diameter.The body of the bag has a subtle fabric like gathering that is simply beautiful. The stirrup shaped handle flips down to open. A concentric circle engine turned design trims the bottom lid. The silver peg that serves to hold the latch pushes in to open the compact lid. There is no sifter or puff included. The lid mounted mirror shows significant wear. A similar bag is illustrated on p. 114 of " Vintage Vanity Bags and Purses" by Gerson. That example exhibits the same beautifully rendered chain handle and is valued at $300 to $400. This piece has an engraved lid with the name Ruth in elegant scrolled lettering. There is a pinpoint dent in the center lid and one gap in the body chain, nearly invisible. The bag is 5 inches in length with a 12-inch chain handle.

This item was part of the archives of the Bag Lady Emporium, originally in operation from 1996 through 2022. It sold for $180.00.