The addition of the frame cuts right down the sides of the purse, disrupting the wonderful scene. Once the frame is removed, you can see the cut sides of the purse. Because it is bead-knit, the entire purse will not unravel from these cuts; however, the first couple of rows of beads on each side of the cut always tend to fall off because they are right along the cut. So on each side, there were 4-5 rows of missing beads that had to be replaced in order to restore the purse to a continuous reticule again.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my job is the incredible purses I get to see. This one is certainly no exception and is right up there among my favorites thus far.
This purse is very early, dating between 1830 and 1840. It is a beaded reticule with a continuous scene of several children at play. During this period of the 1800's, Asian and Oriental themes were predominant, as evidenced by the costumes the children are wearing. There are only two of this particular purse known to exist, as the other belongs to the lovely Paula Higgins. A photo of it in its complete original condition can be seen in the book "Vintage Purses At Their Best" by Lynell Schwartz.
When my client was lucky enough to acquire the same purse, she instantly wanted it returned to its original condition. This purse was originally a reticule, but like with many purses, a frame was added later on after the turn of the century.
So many times I am asked to add frames to reticule style purses, so this was a refreshing and welcome request!
