A vintage mid-20th-century evening handbag and a square decorative metal lid. The handbag is constructed from black ruched fabric and features a silver-tone metal frame with a leaf-form clasp set with faceted clear paste or glass stones. It is housed in its original cardboard box, which features an orange lot sticker numbered 108. The square decorative lid is made from a patinated brass or bronze alloy and contains a central inset panel of carved yellowish material, possibly soapstone or bovine bone, depicting a seated figure. The lid’s surface is engraved with floral and bamboo motifs. Four circular corner medallions are incised with the Chinese characters Fu (福), Lu (祿), Shou (壽), and Xi (喜), which translate to good fortune, prosperity, longevity, and happiness respectively.
Condition report:
The handbag is in good vintage condition and retains its deep black colour. The original cardboard box shows significant shelf wear and age-related deterioration. The decorative lid displays a heavy natural patina throughout, consistent with age and use, and the central carved panel remains intact.
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