Coin purse

Art Historical Context

This delicate coin purse, crafted between 1799 and 1820 from silk and metal, exemplifies the personal accessories of the late Federal or early Regency era. Likely American or European in origin, it reflects the refined craftsmanship of a time when women's fashion emphasized practicality blended with elegance. The silk fabric would have provided a soft, texture, while metal elements—possibly forming a frame, clasp, or decorative accents—added durability and a touch of shimmer, making it both functional and fashionable. In an age before modern wallets, such purses were essential for safeguarding coins during daily errands, social calls, or travel. They highlight the era's growing emphasis on portable luxury goods, accessible to the emerging middle class as well as the elite. The unknown artist's skill in combining textiles with metalwork underscores the artisanal techniques of early 19th-century costume design, where every stitch and seam contributed to both utility and subtle ornamentation. Now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute, thanks to a 1938 gift from theatrical designer Lee Simonson, this purse offers a tangible glimpse into everyday life two centuries ago. Visitors can appreciate how such modest objects wove together culture, commerce, and personal style.