Whiting & Davis Mid-Century Mesh Flap Clutch with Filigree Clasp
Clutch / Frame Bag · Whiting & Davis (established 1876), the premier American brand for metal mesh bags. High-tier vintage accessible luxury.
Collection: Standard Collection, likely Mid-Century Evening Wear line.
Style
Clutch / Frame Bag
Brand
Whiting & Davis (established 1876), the premier American brand for metal mesh bags. High-tier vintage accessible luxury.
Material
Flat metal mesh (likely brass with gold-tone plating) and an internal metal frame. The mesh is machine-linked and hand-applied to the frame.
Dimensions
25cm W x 13cm H x 3cm D. This is a standard sized evening clutch.
Description
An iconic example of mid-century evening glamour, this Whiting & Davis clutch features the brand's signature liquid-like gold-tone mesh. The sleek, slightly tapered silhouette is anchored by a stunning rhinestone-encrusted clasp that serves as a piece of jewelry for the bag itself.
Key Features
Signature flat mesh tiling, rhinestone filigree clasp, internal spring frame, and the characteristic 'snake-skin' feel of the metal mesh.
Material & Construction
Flat metal mesh (likely brass with gold-tone plating) and an internal metal frame. The mesh is machine-linked and hand-applied to the frame.
Color & Pattern
Bright Gold-tone. The pattern is a continuous geometric grid formed by interconnected flat mesh tiles.
Hardware Details
Gold-tone metal hardware. The standout feature is the ornate clear rhinestone-encrusted filigree butterfly or floral clasp, common in mid-century production.
Interior Description
Typically lined in peach or gold satin or grosgrain fabric; usually contains one small slip pocket for a mirror or lipstick. Includes the 'Whiting & Davis Co.' fabric or metal tag.
Closure Type
Spring-tension kiss-lock frame topped with a decorative jeweled filigree lift-clasp.
Strap & Handle Details
Strapless clutch design meant to be carried by hand.
Craftsmanship Details
Exceptional edge-coupling where the mesh meets the frame. The alignment of the mesh tiles is precise, showing no gaps, which is the hallmark of original Whiting & Davis production.
Authentication Indicators
Symmetry of the mesh corners, weight of the metal (authentic mesh is heavy), and the specific 'Whiting & Davis' stamp on the interior frame channel or fabric tag.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in the USA. Primarily manufactured in their historic Plainville, Massachusetts factory using proprietary mesh-making machinery.
Era & Period
Modern Mid-Century Era (Late 1950s to 1960s). This period is defined by the transition from structured 'doctor' bags to sleek, glamorous evening accessories.
Age Estimate
Circa 1955-1965 based on the flat mesh style and the specific ornate filigree work on the clasp.
Cultural Significance
Whiting & Davis bags were the ultimate accessory for the Hollywood Regency style, worn by stars from Jane Russell to those in the 'Mad Men' era.
Condition Notes
Very Good vintage condition. Light surface scratches on the hardware; mesh links appear intact with no visible loss. Some minor oxidation or darkening at the hinges is typical for this age.
Value Estimate
$75 - $150 USD depending on the integrity of the rhinestones and internal lining condition. High-end vintage boutiques may price higher.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft, dry lint-free cloth. Do not use chemical jewelry cleaners as they can strip the gold plating. Store in a dust bag to prevent the mesh from snagging on other items.
Similar Handbags
Vintage Mesh bags by Mandalian (older, usually painted) or Oroton (Australian equivalent). Modern versions by Paco Rabanne are similar in material but different in construction.
Interesting Facts
Whiting & Davis is the oldest handbag company in America and supplied the mesh for metal curtains in Hollywood films and even early armor prototypes for the military.