Iroquois Beaded Bag Brown Velvet

Iroquois Beaded Bag Brown Velvet

This Iroquois Beaded Bag made from Brown Velvet is an sweet find! This unique purse deviates from more typical construction. The artist sewed two beaded dark brown velvet panels together for the exterior of the purse. Many classic Iroquois purses feature a contrasting fabric edge around the side seams (see these links for an example.) This artist did not make such an addition, sewing in only diamond-patterned silk for the liner. They added  beadwork onto the velvet, using variety of seed beads to create identical floral designs and borders on the front and back. Colors include White, Pink, Pale Blue, Translucent Red, Pale Green, Translucent Amber,Translucent Brown, Greasy Yellow, Mustard and Opal Alabaster. For a finishing touch, they used Translucent Brown seed beads to create looped edging, Pale Green seed beads for decorative loops across the front and back, and attached a dark green twist cord for a handle.
Circa late 1800's to early 1900's, this beaded bag has been well loved. The velvet exterior has no holes or rips, but there is discoloring across the middle of the purse (see photos.) There has been no major bead loss except for on the brown and green beaded loops (see photo.) The beadwork has very minor loss on the back but they do not detract from the theme of the design. The original artist used a paper pattern when planning their design. This paper is still intact beneath the beadwork, but is only visible on closer inspection. The stitching holding on the cord handle has come loose on one side, this can be repaired easily by a competent sewer. Likewise, the bead loss can also be restored using the proper techniques.
This Purse measures 5 3/4" long by 6 1/4" at its widest point.
One of a Kind!
Shop for more Antique Collectibles!

Categories: AntiquesCollectibles

SKU: 2222-777-031-E

Shop for Collectible Beadwork