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Purse

Dateabout 1840-1880

MediumHand-stitched and embroidered wool on linen canvas, with silk lining and metal frame

DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (height x width): 3 7/8 x 5 3/8in. (9.8 x 13.7cm)

Credit LineConnecticut Museum of Culture and History collection

DescriptionSmall, rectangular purse of wool cross stitch worked on open weave linen canvas. The design is inspired by Moorish or gothic strapwork, with quatrefoil designs of variegated colors set within medallions, surrounded by black strapwork. The top edge has a border design of diagonal lines of black against varying colors, separated by white spaces. Predominant colors are black, white, yellow, green, pink, and blue. The top edge of the purse is stitched over metal strips, which hold the purse closed, but are flexible and bend open when needed. The purse is edged along the top with ecru ribbed silk; it is lined with plain ecru silk. A pale aqua silk ribbon forms a carrying handle.

Object number1985.168.0

Subject Terms

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