Vintage Beaded Satin Envelope Clutch in Champagne
Envelope Clutch; a slim, rectangular evening bag with a triangular or standard rectangular fold-over flap. · Unbranded/Artisan Mid-Century (Likely Japanese or Hong Kong export). Brand Tier: Accessible Vintage/Specialty Evening Wear.
Collection: Mid-Century Evening Accessories; non-branded artisan production from the 1950s-1960s specialty trade.
Style
Envelope Clutch; a slim, rectangular evening bag with a triangular or standard rectangular fold-over flap.
Brand
Unbranded/Artisan Mid-Century (Likely Japanese or Hong Kong export). Brand Tier: Accessible Vintage/Specialty Evening Wear.
Material
Silk or acetate satin base with glass/faux-pearl seed bead embellishments and faux-pearl teardrop beads. Construction involves machine-sewn textile with hand-applied beadwork.
Dimensions
Width: 25cm (10"), Height: 12.7cm (5"), Depth: 2.5cm (1"). Slim silhouette typical of 20th-century evening bags.
Description
This exquisite vintage clutch embodies the grace of mid-century evening wear. The champagne satin provides a soft, luminous backdrop for the intricate beadwork, which follows a geometric lattice pattern accented by delicate floral sprigs. Its elongated envelope shape is synonymous with the refined cocktail culture of the 1960s, offering a sophisticated way to carry essentials for formal occasions.
Key Features
Hand-applied seed bead trellis; teardrop bead floral 'leaves'; envelope flap silhouette; monochromatic color palette; reinforced textile structure.
Material & Construction
Silk or acetate satin base with glass/faux-pearl seed bead embellishments and faux-pearl teardrop beads. Construction involves machine-sewn textile with hand-applied beadwork.
Color & Pattern
Champagne/Cream satin with a diamond trellis (lattice) pattern. Repeating floral motifs featuring a central flower with three leaves in each diamond segment.
Hardware Details
Internal metal snap closure (likely brass or steel). This model features no exterior hardware, maintaining a fabric-heavy aesthetic.
Interior Description
Matching satin or taffeta lining, typically features one small slip pocket for a mirror or comb. Branding is usually a small fabric label reading 'Hand Made' or 'Made in Japan/British Hong Kong'.
Closure Type
Magnetic snap or press-stud concealed under the decorative beaded flap.
Strap & Handle Details
None; handheld clutch design. Occasionally these models include a 'tuck-away' thin chain, though none is visible here.
Craftsmanship Details
Features intricate hand-sewn beadwork with consistent tension in the trellis lines. The diamond pattern is center-aligned, showing high attention to symmetry despite being a commercial export piece.
Authentication Indicators
Symmetry of the beaded lattice; quality of the glass bead luster; presence of a metal 'Made in...' tag inside (if applicable); the use of cotton thread for bead reinforcement which is standard for the era.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in Japan or Hong Kong. These regions were the premier hubs for high-quality beaded textile exports during this era.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Glamour (Late 1950s to Mid-1960s). Reflects the 'New Look' influence where evening accessories were coordinated with cocktail attire.
Age Estimate
Produced approximately between 1955 and 1968, based on bead style, satin weight, and the trellis floral design.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury during the mid-20th century, where high-quality artisan craftsmanship became available to the middle class through global trade.
Condition Notes
Very Good vintage condition. Visible loosening of the bead string at the lower left edge; satin appears well-preserved with no major foxing or staining. Structure remains crisp.
Value Estimate
Resale Market: $45 - $85 USD. Factors: Bead integrity is the primary value driver for this anonymous but highly nostalgic style.
Care & Maintenance
Store in a dust bag to prevent bead snagging. Do not use chemical cleaners; spot clean satin with a damp cloth only. Professional 'green' cleaners are recommended for vintage silk.
Similar Handbags
Walborg beaded clutches; Magid evening bags; Lumured 'Corde' bags. Differences lie in the specific bead density and closure style.
Interesting Facts
During the 1950s, beaded bags like this were considered essential 'trousseau' items for brides and bridesmaids, often imported from specialty workshops in the Far East.