late-Victorian to early-Edwardian crochet reticule / evening purse

Clothing/Dress/Costume

-

The Recorded Image Project

Name/Title

late-Victorian to early-Edwardian crochet reticule / evening purse

Description

late-Victorian to early-Edwardian crochet reticule / evening purse

Use

Purse

Category

Early Edwardian, Late Victorian

Clothing/Dress/Costume Details

Article of Clothing/Dress/Costume

Purse

Textile Details

Fabric

Cotton

Material

Linen

Lining

Silk

Color

Green, Pink, Yellow

Notes

🌸 Crochet & floral appliqué The raised roses and leaves are done in separate motifs and then applied, a hallmark of Irish crochet techniques popular from the 1880s onward. The dimensional petals and tight, even stitching strongly suggest handwork rather than later machine crochet. 🧵 Net body The openwork mesh body is typical of turn-of-the-century reticules, designed to be light and decorative rather than utilitarian. This style was fashionable for evenings, theatre, and social calls. 🎀 Drawstring & rings The crochet-wrapped rings at the top are a strong period indicator. These allowed the silk cord to glide smoothly and are much harder to replicate convincingly in later reproductions. 🪞 Interior mirror The circular glass piece inside (likely a mirror, now foxed/clouded) is very characteristic of late-Victorian ladies’ purses. Women used these for discreet touch-ups in public—this detail alone strongly supports authenticity. 💚 Silk lining The green silk lining appears hand-fitted and gathered, with visible age wear consistent with original silk rather than modern synthetic fabric.

Made/Created

Date made

1890 - 1915

Time Period

Victorian, Edwardian

Place

Continent

Europe

Notes

Likely British or Irish, possibly Irish crochet work

Condition

Overall Condition

Good

Date Examined

Feb 6, 2026

Notes

Silk lining shows wear and discoloration (expected, and preferable to replacement) Fringe has some unevenness and fraying Crochet remains structurally sound Mirror shows age clouding Overall: Good antique condition, especially for a textile accessory of this age.

General Notes

Note Type

Artist’s Intent Note

Note

Evening reticule, hand-crocheted with applied floral motifs in the Irish crochet tradition, featuring silk lining and interior mirror. Late Victorian to early Edwardian period, c. 1890–1915. Such purses were fashionable accessories for social outings, combining utility with intricate needlework craftsmanship.

Create Date

February 6, 2026