Black lizard hand bag with golden leaf detail on front. Sturdy leather construction with three compartments and zippered pocket. Gold twist chain attached by gold knob hardware. Chain shoulder strap can be tucked into outer compartment as used as a clutch. Signature logo stamped in gold on smooth leather lining.
Martin Van Schaak began his career in the 1940s, when he sold his first purse to the wife of the Dutch ambassador. He soon rose to prominence in the high - end evening bag scene, competing with the likes of Judith Leiber, Roberta di Camerino, Koret, and Josef of Hollywood. Van Schaak pieces are refined and rare - he does not advertise, and most of his pieces are custom made for clients in the Know.
Clients include: Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Joan Kennedy, Nancy Reagan, Marlene Dietrich,Joan Gardner, Betsy Bloomingdale, Clare Boothe Luce, and Connie Mellon.
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Elegant 1920s Whiting and Davis evening purse! This gorgeous enamel mesh purse features a pressed art deco sunburst clasp painted in alternating black and blue enamel. The mesh body of the purse has a vertical geometric blue, green, and black design, with horizontal scalloped detail and painted fringe that cleverly imitates the shape of older mesh bags from the turn of the century. The purse has a figure eight infinity chain, and sharp scalloped bottom that dangles freely.
4.5" Drop
Whiting & Davis was established as Wade, Davis and Co. in 1876. In 1892 Whiting and Davis created their first mesh handbag, and in 1912, after automating the mesh weaving process, Whiting & Davis expanded considerably, overshadowing their competitors with a wide variety of mesh woven handbags and accessories. Whiting & Davis has been a stalwart presence throughout the 20th century, partnering with couturier Paul Poiret in the 1920s, collaborating with designer Elsa Schiaparelli in the 1930s, and joining the war effort in the 1940s.
Whiting & Davis spearheaded the flashy cocktail jewelry trend of the 1950s, created jewelry for Elizabeth Taylor in her leading role in 1963’s Cleopatra, and were also tremendously popular with the 1970s disco crowd because of the slinky, sensual quality of their mesh. Michael Jackson’s 1983 “Beat It” jacket featured Whiting and Davis mesh on the shoulders; finally, in the 1990s, Whiting & Davis worked alongside numerous designers including Marc Jacobs and Anthony Ferrara.
Whiting and Davis fan’s of note include Mamie Eisenhower, Rebecca Romijn, and Lady Gaga.
Oh also, they make chain mail shark suits - amazing!
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Gorgeous 1920s Whiting & Davis mesh bag. This bag features a bright and vivid silk screen painted floral design in soft hues on both sides of the bag. The design features leaves and seven flowers -roses and daises- in blue, pink, violet, and cream. The body of the purse ends in violet, green, yellow, orange, blue, and cobalt rainbow colored zigzag cut. The gold-tone clasp features an art deco design centered around a circle, with seven columns on each side, and six waves surrounding the columns. The bar chain strap is gold-tone. The purse is fully lined in satin silk and has an interior pocket.
Length: 6, Width: 1/4, Depth: 7 1/2, Drop: 3 1/2 inches
*All MRS Couture garments and accessories have been professionally cleaned and thoroughly checked before shipping. They are ready to wear upon arrival.
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This flapper era hand bag was designed by Whiting & Davis in the last years of 1920s. Made of flat armor mesh and beautifully screen printed in dreamy impressionistic shades highlighted at it frame in bold Deco design. Enamel hot pink and green art deco detail on the frame scream "1930s here I come!" Own a piece of classic America history.
Length: 5 3/4, Width: 1/4, Depth: 5 1/2, Drop: 6 inches
*All MRS Couture garments and accessories have been professionally cleaned and thoroughly checked before shipping, so that they are ready to wear upon arrival.