A French crimson silk velvet gaming purse late 17th...

A French crimson silk velvet gaming purse

late 17th century

The exterior in rich crimson silk velvet embroidered with fleurs-de-lys in silver thread to sides and undersides, the interior lined in yellow chamois, with drawstring closure terminating in carved wood bead wrapped in silver thread.

H: 2 1/2, Dia: 5 1/4 in. (approx.)

PROVENANCE:

The collection of Georges Perrier, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Intended to hold gambling coins or chips for card games, this type of "gaming" purse became fashionable in the 17th century when such diversions grew popular in aristocratic circles across Europe. The circular pouch form with stiff leather lining enabled the purse to hold its shape even when empty, which could help obscure a wearer's bad luck. The Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art holds three very similar examples, including one in burnt orange velvet with identical decoration, accession number 2009.300.2065.