Riviera Hand Bag Co. traces its history to the 1940s. This example sans compact to is illustrated on page page 29 of the May 1955 issue of "Handbags & Accessories." The oval body with envelope flap, in this case, carries a vanity compact fixed to the lid, marked with the incised Riviera mark on the lid of the loose powder compartment as well as an unused Riviera puff. The mirror shows some dark specking but is otherwise sound. These bags are molded acetate, not Lucite and the material is much more subject to chips and cracks. This example is not in perfect condition and has a small crack at the back (see detail.) This is likely due to a weight of the compact top which is unsupported when the bag is opened. Priced to sell, this is a rare bag. Measures 7 1/8 x 3 3/4 x 4".

This item was part of the archives of the Bag Lady Emporium, originally in operation from 1996 through 2022 (Inventory ID F00016). It sold for $105.00 in 2011.

Related Pages: Lucite, RivieraBagInc