#6711 $1,200
Hand-painted silk purse, c.1810
This exceptional Regency purse came from the private collection of Desire Smith, author of Handbag Chic. The purse is a superb example of early 19th century textile art.
The purse features hand-painted velvet theorems padded with newspaper and backed with ivory silk. The theorems are outlined with ivory satin braided cord. The brown silk bag is gathered to fit around the theorems. Everything is hand stitched. The hand-painted flowers are still fresh and lovely.
Theorem Painting was an American decorative technique from the first part of the 19th century. A cohesive composition is achieved through a series of stencils cut so that no two adjacent areas can be placed on the same stencil. Any theorem requires the sequence of two or more stencils or overlays.
This technique was popular among women of all ages during the early 1800s. It allowed the average non-professional artist to create acceptable art forms for her own use.
The condition is almost excellent. The drawstring ribbon is fraying. Otherwise, the purse is in remarkable condition for its age.
It measures 7" tall by 7 1/2" wide.
