Whiting and Davis: It's THE name which stands out in the history of handbags. Since before 1900 they were designing high quality, high couture bags, and by 1910 their signature look was the chainmail, metal mesh handbag. This one, from their Dresden mesh line, is fabulous; it was the bag to have for flappers and society's elite in the late 19-teens and early 1920s. The trend diminished by 1940 but continues to this day. Nicole Kidman carried a vintage Whiting and Davis metal mesh bag similar to this one to the Oscars in 1997!
Now you can own your a piece of history, art, and fashion all in one handbag, and its hardy enough to be carried on a special occasion, yet special enough to earn a place of honor in hour antique handbag collection. The bag's in very good vintage condition (see details below) though the lining is qute frayed and torn (can be removed without damaging the bag; I've left it in for historical accuracy.)
Features:
- Small gold tone frame is decorated outside with embossed Art Nouveau pattern
- Inside of frame is embossed with "Whiting and Davis Co." name and the worlds "Soldered Mesh"
- 12.5" metal chain strap with 6" drop contains 12 dainty gold tone embossed bar links
- Frames' two side hinges open smoothly and wide
- Delicate chainmail metal fabric is Impossibly soft and gently undulates with bag's movements
- Body and fringe are silk screened by hand in impressionist colors of pink, purple, and blue on yellow background
- Gold colored silk lining with tiny gathered-top pocket (poor condition)
- Approximately 4" wide x 6" long (including the 1/2" fringe)
- Closes securely with elegant ball-in-socket closure
Background: The history of metal mesh bags dates to the Middle Ages when Knights wore armor of chain mail mesh for protection in battle. A suit of armor could take 3 years to complete and contained about a quarter-million rings! The first metal mesh handbag is thought to have been made in the 1700s.