Antique French Late 19th Century Sterling Silver Carved Coin Purse Double Opening Chatelaine Downton Abbey Fan

A pure silver carved purse from France, originally worn as a decorative accessory on the waist in earlier times. Features a classic pure silver carved frame with a metal silver-ringed pouch body. The carved patterns are exquisite, and the clasp functions perfectly. A rare double-opening design. This small purse was a focal point on a lady's waist, or could be one among many. Something I must share with you all is the "Chatelaine," originating in the 18th century. It was a waist adornment for ladies, with styles referenced in the last image of the pictures provided. Their belts were almost like a hardware store or a jewelry shop, from which many useful items would hang, such as coin purses, scissors, sewing kits, matchboxes, watches, mirrors, letter openers, notepads, pencils, glove clips, and perfume vials. Ladies of high status might carry genuine gold jewelry, lockets, and other small enamel items made of real gold. Each lady's belt was designed according to her needs and could also serve as a symbol of her status at the time. People could infer many of a lady's daily activities by the items she chose to carry. For example, Mrs. Hughes from the series "Downton Abbey" might have had the keys to every door at Downton Abbey on her belt, along with a pair of scissors for occasional trimming or repairs, to keep everything and everyone in optimal condition. The overall condition is very good. Given its history of at least 80 years, it is not as flawless as a new or machine-made item. Please place your order only if you can accept this. Length is 9 cm, width is 5.2 cm (this measurement does not include the length of the small silver pendant at the bottom).