Purse

Unknown

late 17th century · Silk and metal thread · European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Attributed either French or English, this is a beautifully worked pouch, with four equally-sized sides, each sporting three eyelets through which a fine cord would once have been fed. Embroidered in colorful silks and sparkling metal drawn thread, it is only just over 4 inches' tall: a perfect size to nestle in its lucky owner's hand, drawstring drawn tight over candied nuts (Shakespeare's "kissing comfits"), or a pomander, or even a love token.

Artist

Unknown

Date

late 17th century

Medium

Silk and metal thread

Culture

British or French

Department

European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Credit line

Rogers Fund, by exchange, 1929