1920s-30s Whiting & Davis Enameled Mesh Purse with Mirror: Art Deco Stepped Frame, Pink Satin Lining and Turquoise Teardrop Fringe
Description
An Art Deco evening purse by Whiting & Davis in enameled mesh: pink, yellow, cream, black and red on gold-tone mesh in a stylized floral pattern. The hem is cut in deep points finished with turquoise enameled teardrop drops, all present. The gold-tone frame has a stepped clasp with a square window and ribbed sides, and opens wide to a pink satin lining with a pocket holding a round mirror with a gold-tone back. Gold-tone chain handle.
Stamped inside the frame "Whiting & Davis Co. Mesh Bags Reg. U.S." (see the close-up).
Size approx. 4.25 in wide at the frame x 8 in long from the top of the clasp to the tips of the drops (10.8 x 20.3 cm); chain drop approx. 5 in (12.7 cm); mirror approx. 2.2 in (5.5 cm) across. Weight approx. 5.75 oz (163 g).
Read the full description
Historical Context
Whiting & Davis began in Plainville, Massachusetts, in 1876 as Wade, Davis & Company and became Whiting & Davis by 1896. The company bought the link-mesh machine patented by Alonzo C. Pratt (filed 1909), so mesh no longer had to be linked by hand. Enameled color arrived just in time for the 1920s, and stepped Art Deco frames like this one belong to that era.
Condition
Excellent used condition, with slight wear consistent with its age. The mesh is firmly attached to the frame all the way around, with no separation. The enamel is bright, with light scattered wear. Every turquoise drop is present; several show small spots of enamel loss, mostly at the tips. One row of bright silver-colored links near the hem looks like an old repair. Light wear to the gold finish on the frame; the clasp closes firmly and securely. The mirror's silvering has crazed into a dark crackle, common with old mirrors. Satin lining intact with light wear. Please study the images; they are part of the description.
Provenance
From my family's estate collections, built over more than 60 years by knowledgeable antiques collectors and traders. Stored in a climate-controlled environment.
Disclaimer
The images and any video show the actual item and are part of the official listing description, so please review them closely. Measurements and weights are approximate, and any maker or material we haven't confirmed is described as assumed. Questions? Message us; we answer quickly.
