A RARELATE 17th/EARLY18th CENTURY NEEDLEWORK PURSE Purses in the 17thand early 18th centuries served a variety of purposes.  Theywere used to carry personal bibles and devotional items, books, jewelry,tokens of affection for friends and gifts for royalty on New Year’s Day.They were not used on a daily basis so thus the few that survive are oftenin exceptionally good condition.  They were usually embroidered withsilk and metallic threads on a canvas ground.  The similarity of patterns,motifs and materials suggest they may have been the work of professionals.  This exquisite drawstring purse is in pristine condition, given itsage. It features silk embroidery in bright shades of pinks, greens, and bluesagainst a silver and gold metal-wrapped thread background.  The naturalisticmotifs include birds, tulips, poppies, thistles, and green stems and foliage. Gold plaited trim lines the edges. Its four shield-shaped sides terminatein a gold-metal wrapped braided ball with a gold thread and blue tassel beneathit.  Turquoise blue drawstrings on either side terminate in gold-knottedballs leading to three smaller gold balls and blue tassels on each side. The stunning work on this purse suggests the work of a professional embroiderer.Excellent color and condition. 5” H x 4”W. SOLD! For more information contact: Maureen Mayer Silvermine Antiques New Canaan, CT (203) 966-1800 mmayerct@optonline.net