Top of the Line! 1960s Beaded Purse, Made in France
This baby blue beaded purse is divine!! Sewn into the immaculate and shiny satin lining is a label indicating it was "Hand Made in France". The original tissue and price tag were neatly kept inside and I was stunned to see that the retail price in the 1960s was $100!! The pattern on the face of the bag is a great geometric design comprised of glass and cut steel beads. The cut steel beads make up portions of the vertical lines within the zigzag pattern. The "crystal" briolettes are clear lucite and they add a nice three dimensional quality. The hinged clasp that runs along the top is embellished with a rope of glass beads across the front and a brilliant channel of prong-set rhinestones. To open and close the purse you simply lift the front edge of the clasp and the bag gently springs open. It was stored all its years inside of this Montaldo's box with a simple sheet of folded tissue for protection. It was obviously never used and is therefore in remarkable condition. There are, however, two slightly yellowed spots on the handle. In my opinion, they absolutely do not detract from the beauty of the purse overall yet I felt it was important to mention. (The two areas in question are 1-1/2" up from each of the rings that connect the handle to the bag.) The length of the top of the frame is 7" while the base of the bag measures approximately 8-1/2". The height of the purse, measuring from the center of the clasp closure to the base of the bag is approximately 5-1/4". The inside is rather roomy with plenty of room for a cell phone, small wallet and essential toiletries like lipstick! The handle measures about 13-1/2"...a good length for holding by your side or in the crook of your arm. Included are a matching blue satin kiss lock coin purse and a double sided pocket mirror with scalloped edges, still wrapped in the glassine paper! Please specify if you would like the Montaldo's box as that will add to the shipping cost. The box is free but the shipping will be more! So unless specified, I will ship the purse to you safely but not in the Montaldo's box.