Vintage Floral Tapestry Frame Bag (likely Coronet or JR Florida)
Top Handle Frame Bag / Satchel · Unbranded or Mid-Tier American/Continental Vintage (Brands such as Coronation, JR Florida, or Evans were prominent makers of this style)
Collection: Mid-Century Tapestry Series; typically found in Department Store Private Labels or specialized handbag boutiques from the 1950s-1960s
Style
Top Handle Frame Bag / Satchel
Brand
Unbranded or Mid-Tier American/Continental Vintage (Brands such as Coronation, JR Florida, or Evans were prominent makers of this style)
Material
Petit Point or Needlepoint wool tapestry on a canvas ground, structured with internal cardboard or buckram stiffener, featuring leather or vinyl trim and side gussets
Dimensions
Width: 28cm (11in), Height: 25cm (10in), Depth: 8cm (3in), Handle Drop: 12cm (5in); Small-to-Medium Satchel size
Description
A quintessentially mid-century accessory, this tapestry frame bag captures the elegance of the post-war era. The bag features a centered floral needlepoint motif on a cream-colored field, framed by a decorative gold-tone hardware edge that gives it a formal, structured appearance. It is a classic 'day-and-evening' bag of its time, designed for the coordinated lady.
Key Features
Hand-pointed or machine-tapestry floral center; trapezoidal silhouette; engraved metal frame; rigid top-handle construction
Material & Construction
Petit Point or Needlepoint wool tapestry on a canvas ground, structured with internal cardboard or buckram stiffener, featuring leather or vinyl trim and side gussets
Color & Pattern
Champagne/Cream base featuring a multi-color floral bouquet including shades of Rose Pink, Crimson Red, Sage Green, and Pale Yellow. Classic cottagecore aesthetic
Hardware Details
Gold-tone engraved 'piano' frame with a textured floral or scrolled pattern; standard kiss-lock or lift-clasp closure at the top center
Interior Description
Likely lined in peach or tan satin or faille fabric; typically contains one or two slip pockets and a small mirror pocket; possible 'Made in USA' or 'Made in West Germany' label
Closure Type
Lift-style metal clasp integrated into a decorative gold-tone frame
Strap & Handle Details
Single top handle made of matching cream-colored synthetic or genuine leather, attached with metal D-rings to the frame
Craftsmanship Details
Tightly woven floral panel with excellent color gradation; the frame is secured with small internal screws or rivets; gussets are fold-finished to allow the bag to expand
Authentication Indicators
The weight of the frame, the quality of the tapestry weave (checking for pulled threads), and the style of the engraving on the gold-tone metal are typical of mid-century production
Origin & Manufacturing
Most commonly USA (Miami/New York manufacture) or West Germany; manufactured to high-quality department store standards using machine-aided needlework
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (Late 1950s to Early 1960s); representative of the domestic, ultra-feminine fashion trend exemplified by the 'New Look' silhouette
Age Estimate
Approx. 60-65 years old (Production likely between 1958 and 1964)
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Good Housekeeping' era of fashion where structured, decorative handbags were a symbol of status and domestic refinement
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible darkening and cracking on the handle, typical of aged synthetic materials. Slight fraying at corners and minor surface staining on the light tapestry background near the top left
Value Estimate
Resale Market: $45 - $85 USD; Value is primarily aesthetic/vintage appeal rather than brand-driven investment
Care & Maintenance
Avoid moisture which causes rot in vintage canvas; use a soft-bristled brush to remove dust from the weave; store in a breathable dust bag with acid-free tissue to maintain shape
Similar Handbags
Enid Collins Box Bags (for a more whimsical look), Corde Bead Purses (for evening), or modern-day Gucci 'Flora' prints which draw from this floral heritage
Interesting Facts
Needlepoint bags became a popular hobby for socialites in the 1950s; high-end kits were sold so women could embroider their own panels and have them professionally framed by companies like JR Florida