1840 Crochet & Ribbon Purse ID' d
for Aunt Catherine

Trimmed with looped silk fringe this delicate purse is crocheted in a lattice pattern with three rows of matching silk ribbon woven across the center.  A tiny mother of pearl button serves as closure with a loop from the center back.  The carrying cord runs behind the back flap which is stiffened with a strip of baleen sewn in place.  The baleen is in two pieces which meet in the center.  Two small holes have been carefully mended from the inside and can be seen in the photos, otherwise the condition is very good.

A small strip of paper which was found inside indicate this purse dated to 1840 and belonged to Aunt Catherine.  From the Vail family of Bennington, VT and Springfield, MA.

Measures 6" wide across the top and 6" long exclusive of fringe.