Gorham Antique Victorian 925 Sterling And Silk Mourning Handbag. Museum Quality

This is a particularly fine example of an antique late Victorian (1890s-1900) mourning handbag. Both sides of the repoussé frame feature ornate designs of cherubs, grapevines, and garlands of flowers. To the Victorians certain images were also possessed of symbolic meaning; unsurprisingly those of a bag carried after the passing of a loved one have particular religious significance.

Antique handbag made by Gorham with sterling silver frame. Inside the frame on one side is marked "sterling" as well as three stamps (the first one is difficult to make out but it is a lion. the second an anchor, the third a "G.") The opposite side of the frame is stamped "2357". The body is made of black moiré (silk fabric that has been subjected to heat and pressure rollers after weaving to give it a rippled appearance.)

Measures:
Length: 9in.
Height: 9in.
Width: 4-5in.
Handle drop: 8in.
Push button closure.

This item is in pristine antique condition with absolutely no wear to the outside of the purse