Vintage Silver-Tone Ring Mesh Chatelaine Purse
Vintage Fashion Accessories / Antique Handbags

Vintage Silver-Tone Ring Mesh Chatelaine Purse

This is a vintage silver-tone ring mesh evening purse, likely dating from the early 20th century (circa 1900-1920s). The piece features a supple metal mesh body constructed of hundreds of small interlocking rings, common in the Art Nouveau and early Art Deco periods. The bag is suspended from a decorative, embossed metal frame with a curved, ornate top edge featuring floral or scrolling foliate motifs. There is a small oval cartouche at the center of the frame, which remains unengraved. The closure consists of a classic double ball-type kiss lock. The purse includes a long, matching link chain for use as a shoulder bag or to be hung from a chatelaine belt. The bottom of the mesh bag is finished with a scalloped edge highlighted by small metal bead or ball fringe accents. Regarding condition, the metal shows a significant dark patina and surface oxidation consistent with age, particularly on the frame and the links of the chain. There are visible irregularities in the mesh drape, which may indicate small localized stretches or loose rings. While no maker's marks are immediately visible in the image, the craftsmanship suggests a mass-produced but high-quality accessory typical of the Whiting & Davis or Mandalian Mfg. style. The overall construction displays the fine-gauge metalwork prized by collectors of period fashion accessories.

Estimated Value

$125 - $175

Basic Information

Category

Vintage Fashion Accessories / Antique Handbags

Appraised On

March 3, 2026

Estimated Value

$125 - $175

Item Description

This is a vintage silver-tone ring mesh evening purse, likely dating from the early 20th century (circa 1900-1920s). The piece features a supple metal mesh body constructed of hundreds of small interlocking rings, common in the Art Nouveau and early Art Deco periods. The bag is suspended from a decorative, embossed metal frame with a curved, ornate top edge featuring floral or scrolling foliate motifs. There is a small oval cartouche at the center of the frame, which remains unengraved. The closure consists of a classic double ball-type kiss lock. The purse includes a long, matching link chain for use as a shoulder bag or to be hung from a chatelaine belt. The bottom of the mesh bag is finished with a scalloped edge highlighted by small metal bead or ball fringe accents. Regarding condition, the metal shows a significant dark patina and surface oxidation consistent with age, particularly on the frame and the links of the chain. There are visible irregularities in the mesh drape, which may indicate small localized stretches or loose rings. While no maker's marks are immediately visible in the image, the craftsmanship suggests a mass-produced but high-quality accessory typical of the Whiting & Davis or Mandalian Mfg. style. The overall construction displays the fine-gauge metalwork prized by collectors of period fashion accessories.

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