THE PURSE MUSEUM

THE PURSE MUSEUM

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Purses 1901 - 1920 Early 20th Century

A purse is just an object, influenced by cultural, political, and technical innovations of the time in which it was made…

The beginning of the 20th century was known by many names, and for many events and themes. Purses, bags. reticules, handbags and pouches are objects that reflect this. As an example wealthy woman’s fashion was more opulent and extravagant in this period. 

Between 1900-1914 (the beginning of WWI)  in England, France, Europe and United States, inventions, design, travel, technology, fashion, and women’s suffrage were happening concurrent with peace and prosperity.


  • Popularity of the Bicycle
  • The Department Store : Harrods in 1905 was Europe’s biggest department store. (everything from high fashion to ready to wear) 
  • in USA Wright Brothers First Flight 1903
  • in USA Henry Ford USA : First Automobile Assembly Line 1913
  • The introduction of the typewriter
  • The internal combustion engine
  • The Train  (USA)- created wealth through the extension of the system, commercial travel, and the establishment of manufacturing hubs to move goods across the country
A group of mechanical, coin purses early 1900 aka ‘Railroad Purse’ to hold tokens or coins

A group of mechanical, coin purses early 1900 aka ‘Railroad Purse’ to hold tokens or coins

mechanical coin, purse from Germany, turn of the century

mechanical coin, purse from Germany, turn of the century

Very Unique Mesh Purse in the design of a miser purse early 20th century

Very Unique Mesh Purse in the design of a miser purse early 20th century

Art Nouveau Chatelaine Purse -silver plate & elephant hide

Art Nouveau Chatelaine Purse -silver plate & elephant hide

Hand painted on Silk France Early 1900

Hand painted on Silk France Early 1900

Early 1900 France - velvet with metallic accents - Revival of shield shape from 1700’s

Early 1900 France - velvet with metallic accents - Revival of shield shape from 1700’s

Unique opening English Handbag. Sterling Hallmark frame with a leather purse body

Unique opening English Handbag. Sterling Hallmark frame with a leather purse body

Vicki Schwager owner/collector
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