Exquisite Jolles Original Petit Point Evening Purse

Petit Point Evening Purse. 1940s/50s. Jolles Original. Exquisite small evening bag with dramatic petit point scene of buildings, bridge, water, flowers and trees on the front and back. At the bottom is a ribbon and floral piece. Thin golden leather detail trim between the front, back and bottom. Lined in peach satin. One inner pocket. Goldtone hardware with a delicate goldtone chain that interestingly connects at opposite ends of the frame.

Jolles was known for its petit point purses and other types of needlework. I think this is an oldie, probably from the ‘40s, although I can’t be sure. It’s truly a work of art.

Bonus pic! J. Jolles Studios business card.

I have my eye right now on some other Jolles ephemera. Will post it here if I manage to snag it. (UPDATE: SCORE! Waiting for it to be shipped.)

SPECIAL POST! VINTAGE PURSE A DAY HAS A NEW SISTER!

SPECIAL POST! Vintage Purse a Day has a new sister!

Many of my fellow vintage purse lovers also adore vintage clothing. Since I have about as many vintage sweaters and sweater-related jewelry as I do purses, I thought I’d start a new site. When you get a chance, check out Sweater Gal, www.sweatergal.com, for photos, links, and my look of the day. Yep, I really do wear the stuff.

In fact, I found out that on my regular Monday morning assignment (in my “other” life, I am a professional freelance writer), I was the talk of the back office. They all wanted to know where I get my outfits! I told them I only shop at the finest of thrift stores. (Partially true. I seriously love me some Goodwill.)

Meantime, here is a pic my lovely daughters Katey and Rachel, modeling some of my sweaters for photos I took for an article I wrote for Antiques & Collecting Magazine in 2010. You can see more photos by visiting Sweater Gal. If you have any comments, questions or suggestions, please email info(at)vintagepursegallery(dot)com.

Midas of Miami Faux Gem Encrusted Box Bag

Faux Gem Encrusted Box Bag. 1950s. Midas of Miami. Gorgeous box purse covered in the tiniest of silver seed beads, pastel colored faux gems, shells, and faux pearls. Silver rope trim. Milky white Lucite top and clear Lucite handle and clasp. Four clear round feet. Lined in white fabric.

This one is an oldie! The tag is different from most Midas bags in that in addition to it saying “An Original Midas of Miami,” it also says “Handicrafts Inc. – Miami 47, Florida.” Also, Midas is mostly known for its wicker purses with signature woven golden rope handles.

While I love them all, this one is definitely a standout!