France, Circa 1880–1910
An antique mother of pearl shell coin purse, made from two beautifully luminous pieces of polished shell and fitted with its original decorative metal hinges and clasp. Inside, an accordion folded violet lining creates a series of tiny compartments once intended for coins and other small valuables.
Beneath the translucent mother of pearl is the faded photographic portrait of an unknown man. His identity has been lost, but his image remains suspended within the shell, appearing and disappearing as the object catches the light.
Small purses such as this belonged to a nineteenth century culture of keeping things close: coins, stamps, tokens, photographs and tiny objects of personal significance. This one is offered empty, allowing its next keeper to decide what is worthy of being carried within it.
A small vessel for what we keep.
Important Note
All sales are final, each piece is one-of-a-kind. Please note shipping options at checkout.
France, Circa 1880–1910
An antique mother of pearl shell coin purse, made from two beautifully luminous pieces of polished shell and fitted with its original decorative metal hinges and clasp. Inside, an accordion folded violet lining creates a series of tiny compartments once intended for coins and other small valuables.
Beneath the translucent mother of pearl is the faded photographic portrait of an unknown man. His identity has been lost, but his image remains suspended within the shell, appearing and disappearing as the object catches the light.
Small purses such as this belonged to a nineteenth century culture of keeping things close: coins, stamps, tokens, photographs and tiny objects of personal significance. This one is offered empty, allowing its next keeper to decide what is worthy of being carried within it.
A small vessel for what we keep.
Important Note
All sales are final, each piece is one-of-a-kind. Please note shipping options at checkout.
