Antique Beaded Purse, Floral Flower Pattern, best c. 1860

Antique micro beaded knit purse or reticule displays colorful sprays of flowers, tendrils, vines, leaves and truly deft needlework. Knit in silk, the beads would have been strung by the knitter prior to executing the pattern. One wrong stitch, one wrong bead color, and the whole pattern is thrown off requiring the knitter to begin again.

There are holes in this bag. It has faired rather well for its age. Measuring 5 1/4" by 5 1/2", It is a superb example of American needle craft. Consider this: the woman who took the time to make this bag had the time and talent to do so. She would not have been a best common housewife, nor a farm wife, nor a laborer. She would not have had the time nor the money to execute such a fine bag. The rich colors proclaim their own wealth as the more colorful the bag, the more expensive the beads.

Roses, lilies, fleur de lis, and green leafy vines all send a powerful message of the beautiful artistry of its creator!