Evening bags are small handbags made of rich fabric. They are often beaded or decorated with embroidery or other methods. Some can be novelty shaped, such as in the shapes of animals. They are carried by women on formal or dressy occasions, usually in the evening hence the name evening bag.
Below are some examples and price guides of beaded evening bags including a micro beaded bag with a courting couple scene and a Valentino satin bag.
Mary Frances Handmade Beaded Evening Purse
Hand crafted Evening bag by Mary Frances, signed label sewn to interior. All beaded with dragonfly and flowers in relief.use of iridescent seed and tube beads, mother of pearl and glass cabochons. Additional signed Metal charm , reads Mary Frances. Hard case bag, added stitched green suede, chain strap, drop is 17.5 in. 1/2 in. Wear throughout appropriate to age and use. Discoloration, loose threads and beads, evident areas of loss to beads.
Sold for US$125 at The Benefit Shop Foundation Inc. in 2023
Beaded Evening Bag With Enamel And Jeweled Frame circa 1920, Floral Decoration With Roses. Retains Original Metal Looking Glass Type Mirror With Tassel.
Sold for US$150 at J. Garrett Auctioneers in 2023
Micro Beaded Evening Bag with Courting couple and Jeweled Frame
Sold for US$200 at Dixon’s Crumpton Auction in 2022
VALENTINO BEADED SATIN EVENING BAG with label and card; hand-embroidered; 8 inches wide; 4 1/2 inches deep; 4 1/2 inches high
Sold for US$225 at Abell Auction in 2022
Fabulous, circa 1900s micro beaded evening bag. Muted palette of flowers with bright purple and silver geometric design around borders combines Art Nouveau and Art Deco influence. Fringed tassel bottom. Magnificent and ornate embossed gilt metal frame has Peking glass cabochons and red and blue crystals, bezel set in raised mountings. Enamel scroll accents. Large domed Peking glass cabochon accents the gilded pierce work clasp, matching pull adornment. Metal chain decorated with Peking glass balls. Hand-stitched dusty pink striped satin lining. Unmarked.
Sold for US$100 at Taurus Auctions in 2022
