Gilded Keepsakes: How Victorian Accessories Symbolized Wealth And Status

The antique Victorian silver purse, a quintessential accessory from the late 19th century, encapsulates the elegance and opulence of the Victorian era. This exquisite item was not merely a functional piece for carrying coins and small personal items; it was also a symbol of wealth and status, often reflecting the sophisticated tastes of its owner.

Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, Victorian silver purses were made using fine sterling silver, and their designs often featured intricate engravings, embossing, or filigree work. These purses varied in shape and size, from small, delicate pieces meant to hang from a chatelaine to more substantial clutches adorned with clasps and chains. The clasps themselves were frequently embellished with semi-precious stones or detailed with ornate motifs that drew from the natural world, such as flowers and birds, or from Gothic and Rococo influences.

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