ENGLISH NEEDLEWORK PURSE, FIRST HALF 17TH CENTURY

Each side depicting an angel, worked in tent and other stitches.

Sotheby's, London, April 8, 1994, lot 379.

Tassels are in excellent condition, colors are generally retained and the metal thread has some losses and wear. Lacking one tassel at the bottom. Some of the darker colors have oxidized to expose foundation beneath. Interior blue silk lining has many losses and tears. Some small holes and minor tears.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Many purses of this form have survived from the early seventeenth century; however, they are almost entirely undocumented in paintings from that period. It has been theorized that they were either decorative bags for small gifts or 'sweet bags', containers for perfumed powder or herbs.