Diana de Silva Vintage Rosette Print Canvas Flap Wallet
Rectangular Flap Wallet or Long Continental Wallet · Diana de Silva (Italian luxury manufacturer). Under the Diana de Silva Cosmetiques parent company, which was known for high-end beauty and leather collaborations. Tier: Vintage Premium Luxury.
Collection: Diana de Silva Permanent Collection (circa late 1980s/early 1990s)
Style
Rectangular Flap Wallet or Long Continental Wallet
Brand
Diana de Silva (Italian luxury manufacturer). Under the Diana de Silva Cosmetiques parent company, which was known for high-end beauty and leather collaborations. Tier: Vintage Premium Luxury.
Material
Screen-printed durable canvas body with fine grain leather trim and piping. Features machine-stitched construction with burnished leather edges along the flap and perimeter.
Dimensions
Width: 19 cm (7.5 in), Height: 10 cm (4 in), Depth: 2 cm (0.8 in). Typical Continental size.
Description
This is a sophisticated vintage accessory that captures the exuberance of late 20th-century Italian design. The wallet features an intricate print of celebratory prize ribbons and tassels, symbols often used to convey status and heritage. Its long silhouette provides ample space for organizational needs, while the fine leather trim ensures longevity and structure.
Key Features
Signature 'DS' logo integrated into the print; contrasted leather perimeter piping; high-saturation screen print on durable textile; continental flap design.
Material & Construction
Screen-printed durable canvas body with fine grain leather trim and piping. Features machine-stitched construction with burnished leather edges along the flap and perimeter.
Color & Pattern
Multicolor 'Rosette and Tassel' print on a tan/camel background. Shades of magenta, royal blue, mustard yellow, and forest green. This was a classic high-fashion pattern typical of the era, reminiscent of equestrian or celebratory motifs.
Hardware Details
Minimalist hardware. Hidden magnetic or snap closure under the flap. There is a small circular 'DS' logo integrated into the print design rather than a metal emblem on the exterior.
Interior Description
Likely lined in smooth tan leather or a durable jacquard logo fabric. Expected to feature multiple card slots, a central zip compartment for coins, and bill sleeves.
Closure Type
Front flap with a snap or magnetic closure.
Strap & Handle Details
None; this is a hand-held wallet meant to be carried inside a larger handbag.
Craftsmanship Details
Consistent stitch density; precise alignment of the leather border following the curve of the flap; high-resolution textile printing without bleeding between colors.
Authentication Indicators
Symmetrical printing; tight, even machine stitching; 'Made in Italy' heat stamp (expected inside); high-quality piping finishing; integration of the brand logo into the artwork pattern.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in Italy. Produced by the Diana de Silva Group, an Italian house known for high-quality production standards and luxurious lifestyle accessories.
Era & Period
Late 1980s to early 1990s. The 'Scarf Print' aesthetic was popularized during this time by brands like Gucci, Ferragamo, and Hermès, influencing Italian boutique brands like Diana de Silva.
Age Estimate
Circa 1988-1994, based on the specific graphic style of the rosettes and the type of canvas coating used.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Maximalist' era of Italian fashion where accessories were used to display vibrant prints and neoclassical motifs, reflecting the economic prosperity and boldness of the 1980s fashion scene.
Condition Notes
Excellent vintage condition. The canvas shows vibrant color with minimal fading. The leather trim appears intact with very slight rubbing at the corners. Structure remains firm. Grade: Excellent.
Value Estimate
$75 - $150 USD on the vintage resale market, depending on the interior condition and presence of the original box.
Care & Maintenance
Clean canvas with a damp cloth; avoid alcohol-based cleaners on the print. Use a neutral leather conditioner on the brown trim every 6 months. Store in a cotton dust bag away from direct sunlight to prevent print fading.
Similar Handbags
Gucci V. Accornero Flora Wallets (more floral), Ferragamo Silk Print Wallets (more equestrian), or vintage Etro paisley wallets.
Interesting Facts
Diana de Silva was a major Italian fragrance house that held licenses for Gianfranco Ferré and Genny. Their leather goods were often produced as high-end gifts or limited boutique releases, making them rarer than mass-market luxury brands.
Notes
Diana de Silva wallet