Vintage Iridescent Sequin and Seed Bead Envelope Clutch
Clutch / Envelope Bag / Minaudière · Unbranded Vintage (likely Mid-Century Import); contemporary tier, representative of artisan evening wear produced for the boutique market.
Collection: 1950s-1970s Formal Evening Wear; non-seasonal, commemorative/bridal-adjacent.
Style
Clutch / Envelope Bag / Minaudière
Brand
Unbranded Vintage (likely Mid-Century Import); contemporary tier, representative of artisan evening wear produced for the boutique market.
Material
Silk or satin fabric base heavily embellished with hand-applied iridescent gelatin/plastic sequins, glass seed beads, and faux pearl cabochon accents. Hand-finished construction with a structured interlining for shape retention.
Dimensions
Width: 20cm (8"), Height: 12cm (4.7"), Depth: 2cm (0.8"). Size corresponds to a standard formal clutch.
Description
An exquisite example of mid-century evening accessory design, this envelope clutch is a masterclass in texture. The base is completely obscured by layers of iridescent sequins that catch the light from every angle, punctuated by intricate, three-dimensional beadwork in a botanical motif. The focal point is a central floral burst featuring teardrop faux pearls, providing a romantic and bridal-friendly aesthetic.
Key Features
Hand-sewn tambour beadwork, scalloped flap edge, central faux-pearl floral medallion, and full iridescent sequin coverage.
Material & Construction
Silk or satin fabric base heavily embellished with hand-applied iridescent gelatin/plastic sequins, glass seed beads, and faux pearl cabochon accents. Hand-finished construction with a structured interlining for shape retention.
Color & Pattern
Pearl White / Opalescent; features a 1960s-style floral and vine pattern created by raised beading over a shimmering sequin background. Iridescent 'Mother of Pearl' finish reflecting pastel hues.
Hardware Details
Minimal hardware; likely features a hidden internal magnetic snap or a small metal zipper pull. If vintage, may contain a brass or nickel-finished frame concealed by beads.
Interior Description
Typically lined in white or cream satin or taffeta. Usually contains one small slip pocket for a mirror or slim items. Branding is often a small fabric 'Made in...' label.
Closure Type
Asymmetrical flap with a concealed snap or magnetic closure tucked beneath the beaded scallop edge.
Strap & Handle Details
Handheld clutch style. Usually lacks a strap, though some variants may include a thin concealable cord or gold-tone chain tucked inside.
Craftsmanship Details
High-density bead application with uniform tension. The scalloped edge finishing requires significant skill to ensure beads remain secure while forming a curved border.
Authentication Indicators
Symmetry in hand-sewn patterns, tight spacing between sequins, and the weight of the glass beads. Vintage labels usually indicate 'Hand Beaded' and the specific origin country.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in Hong Kong or Japan. During this era, these regions were the premier ateliers for high-quality hand-beaded accessories exported to Western boutiques.
Era & Period
Mid-Century / 1960s-1970s Evening Glamour. Recognizable by the heavy use of iridescent 'fish scale' sequins and tambour beading common in that era's formal accessories.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1975 based on the style of the faux pearl centerpiece and the specific iridescent coating on the sequins.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war boom in cocktail culture and formal dressing, where highly decorative, non-utilitarian 'jeweled' bags became a status symbol for evening outings.
Condition Notes
Excellent Vintage Condition. Overall structure is well-preserved. Note: Vintage beaded bags should be checked for loose threads ('dropping beads') or desilvered/yellowed pearls due to age.
Value Estimate
$40 - $120 USD. Value is driven by the intactness of the beads; missing patterns or yellowing significantly reduces collector interest.
Care & Maintenance
Store in a breathable dust bag (avoid plastic which can yellow sequins). Professional specialized cleaning only. Avoid perfume spray contact which can dissolve the iridescent coating on sequins.
Similar Handbags
Judith Leiber Minaudières (more structured), Moyna beaded bags (contemporary), and vintage Walborg or Magid evening clutches.
Interesting Facts
Hand-beaded bags of this caliber were often sold at high-end department stores like Neiman Marcus or Saks Fifth Avenue as 'after-five' essentials for the social seasons of the 60s.