Delill Persian Procession Tapestry Frame Bag
Evening Clutch / Frame Bag with Chain · Delill; Delill Creations was a premier mid-century American luxury accessory brand known for high-quality imports from Europe and the Middle East.
Collection: Delill Tapestry Series, featuring ornate pictorial weaving, often from Belgium or Italy during the 1960s.
Style
Evening Clutch / Frame Bag with Chain
Brand
Delill; Delill Creations was a premier mid-century American luxury accessory brand known for high-quality imports from Europe and the Middle East.
Material
The exterior is made of a finely woven textile tapestry (likely cotton or wool-silk blend) featuring a scenic equestrian motif. It is constructed over a structured frame with gusseted sides and reinforced interior paneling.
Dimensions
Width: 20cm (8"), Height: 25cm (10"), Depth: 2.5cm (1"), Chain Drop: 15cm (6"). This is a flat, vertical orientation evening bag.
Description
An exquisite example of Mid-Century evening wear, this Delill bag features a detailed tapestry of a figures on horseback in a style reminiscent of ancient Persian miniatures. The scene is brought to life with vibrant threads and gold embroidery outlines, set against an ornate gilded frame. It represents a time when evening bags were treated as wearable pieces of art.
Key Features
Detailed pictorial tapestry; vertical 'envelope' silhouette; ornate engraved metal frame; metallic gold thread embroidery outlining the figures; distinctive Delill mechanical clasp.
Material & Construction
The exterior is made of a finely woven textile tapestry (likely cotton or wool-silk blend) featuring a scenic equestrian motif. It is constructed over a structured frame with gusseted sides and reinforced interior paneling.
Color & Pattern
Multicolor pictorial scenic pattern featuring a 'Persian Procession' or 'Hunting Scene' motif in beige, cobalt blue, terracotta, and emerald green. The figures are outlined in gold decorative metallic thread embroidery.
Hardware Details
Brushed gold-tone or brass frame with ornate top engraving. Features a top bar lift-clasp (often with small rhinestones or textured metalwork) and a thin antiqued brass linked chain.
Interior Description
Typically lined in high-quality champagne or beige satin or peau de soie. Includes one or two small side slip pockets, often with an 'Exclusively for Delill' gold foil heat stamp.
Closure Type
Folding metal frame with a mechanical lift-clasp or snap fastener at the top center.
Strap & Handle Details
Single delicate brass chain handle for hand or wrist carry; non-adjustable and non-detachable, though often tuckable inside the bag.
Craftsmanship Details
Features intricate weaving with high thread-count; the metal frame is securely attached to the fabric without visible glue; the gold cord embroidery is hand-guided.
Authentication Indicators
The presence of the specific engraved frame pattern common to Delill bags; the quality of the stitch-density in the tapestry; and the weight of the brass hardware. Authentic Delill pieces feature high-quality fabric that does not pill easily.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Made in Belgium or Italy for the American market (Delill often sourced European tapestries). Assembled with high manufacturing standards for mid-century boutique retail.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / 1960s 'Orientalist' High Fashion. This style reflected the global travel and fascination with Eastern aesthetics common during this decade.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1968, based on the frame style, the tapestry subject matter, and the specific 'Delill' branding period.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Golden Age' of American accessory import houses and the post-war trend of using historical and international art motifs (Orientalism) in everyday fashion accessories.
Condition Notes
Very Good vintage condition. Light darkening of the tapestry at the corners and top edge near the frame. Minor tarnishing on the brass chain. Frame remains functional with a tight snap closure.
Value Estimate
$75 - $150 USD depending on the interior cleanliness and the integrity of the gold embroidery. Rare scenic designs like this one command the higher end of the range.
Care & Maintenance
Store in a breathable dust bag; do not overstuff as the frame can bend. Keep away from moisture to prevent tapestry rot or frame oxidation. Use a soft brush for dust removal.
Similar Handbags
Walborg tapestry bags (often similar in style but different frame patterns), Coblentz bags, and vintage Lumured petit point clutches.
Interesting Facts
Delill was a favored brand among Hollywood socialites in the 1950s and 60s. Their bags were often sold in high-end department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue and Bergdorf Goodman.
Notes
Delill