Bronze Antique Hand-crocheted Metallic Gimp or Lurex Crochet Reticule

Measures 5.5” L x 3.5” W x 7” H with a 7” long ribbon strap

The material is fabric wrapped in very thin metal foil (often called "gimp" thread). This was designed to glitter under the low light of ballrooms or theaters. This specific bag features an open-work "shell" or "pineapple" crochet pattern. The scalloped "crown" top above the drawstrings and the crochet pom-pom tassels (often called "bobbles" or "acorns") are classic decorative elements of the period.

A reticule (from the Latin reticulum, meaning "little net") was the essential precursor to the modern handbag. Before the 20th century, women wore "pockets" under their skirts; once silhouettes became slimmer, they began carrying these small, decorative pouches.

The lining is intact and undamaged, and its egg-shaped structure, like a small dome, suggests it was meant to retain its shape even when empty.

Most likely from England or France. Circa 1910-1920. The use of metallic threads became highly fashionable during the "Titanic era" and into the early Art Deco period. The scalloped "coronet" top and the drawstring style are textbook examples of the Late Edwardian transition into the 1920s Flapper style.

Note: One tassel is missing.