Alaskan Crafts Appraisal

Alaskan Beaded Floral Coin Purse

This is a meticulously crafted, Native-inspired beaded coin purse, approximately 5-6 inches in length and 3-4 inches in width, likely made from fabric or leather as a base covered entirely with glass seed beads. The primary material is tiny seed beads, predominantly in an off-white or cream color that forms the background of the piece. The design features a central floral motif with five petals arranged around a dark central bead. The petals are outlined in a vibrant magenta and filled with alternating light blue/gray and dark gray beads, with clusters of yellow and red beads forming the interior of each petal. Surrounding the flower are two distinct green leaves, each outlined in a brighter green and filled with a darker shade of green, detailed with lighter green veins. A border of iridescent gold or bronze-colored seed beads encapsulates the entire piece, creating a shimmering edge and defining its unique, slightly irregular D-shaped or fan-shaped outline. The beadwork appears to be tightly woven and consistent, indicating a high level of craftsmanship. There is a slight fraying visible in the upper left corner of the gold beaded edge, suggesting minor wear or a loose thread from handling. The reverse side, though not visible, would typically be a solid material like cloth or soft leather, enclosing the purse's contents. Given the 'Alaskan art coin purse' context, it likely represents traditional Indigenous beadwork styles from Alaska or a nearby region, possibly mid-20th century or later given the consistency of the bead size and the vibrancy of the colors, which suggest modern glass beads. The quality of the beadwork, the intricate floral and leaf design, and the tight finishes contribute to its collectibility and value as a piece of functional art.