The Piece

A charming vintage evening purse featuring emerald green brocade fabric woven with intricate butterfly and floral motifs in gold, pink, and ivory thread. The textile has a luminous satin sheen typical of mid-century brocade fabrics inspired by traditional East Asian decorative patterns.

The purse is constructed with a polished gold-tone metal kiss-lock frame and a folding metal handle that allows the bag to be carried or displayed upright. The structured design creates a small triangular silhouette when opened, a style commonly used in compact evening bags during the mid-20th century.

Inside, the bag is lined with chocolate-brown satin fabric forming a single compartment suitable for small personal items such as coins, lipstick, or evening essentials.

Brocade handbags like this became popular in Western fashion during the post-war period when Asian textiles were widely imported for use in accessories and eveningwear. The decorative butterfly motif reflects traditional textile symbolism associated with beauty, transformation, and elegance.

Estimated Date: circa 1950s

Historical Context

During the 1950s, evening handbags were often designed as compact statement accessories intended to complement formal dresses and cocktail attire. Rather than large everyday bags, these purses emphasized decorative textiles, metallic frames, and sculptural shapes.

Brocade fabrics—especially those featuring butterflies, florals, or cranes—were widely exported from Asian textile producers and incorporated into Western fashion accessories. The luxurious sheen and intricate woven patterns made these materials particularly desirable for evening bags and special occasion pieces.

The kiss-lock frame closure used here was a popular mid-century design, valued for its simple mechanical function and elegant silhouette.

Product Details

Estimated Date
circa 1950s

Materials
• Brocade satin textile
• Gold-tone metal kiss-lock frame
• Folding metal handle
• Satin interior lining

Closure
• Classic kiss-lock clasp

Color
Emerald green with gold and pink butterfly motifs

Interior
Single compartment with brown satin lining

Condition + Notes

Good vintage condition consistent with age and use.

Observed condition includes:

→ Light wear to brocade fabric typical of vintage textiles
→ Minor surface patina on metal frame and handle
→ Interior satin lining remains intact with light wear
→ Kiss-lock clasp opens and closes securely

The purse retains its original structure and remains a functional vintage accessory.

Why It Belongs in Your Home

Vintage evening bags capture a moment when accessories were designed as small works of textile artistry. The combination of luminous brocade fabric, sculptural metal frame, and compact proportions reflects the elegance of mid-century fashion.

Whether displayed as a decorative textile object, incorporated into a vintage wardrobe, or used as a compact clutch for formal occasions, this brocade purse offers a refined example of 1950s accessory design.

From Viridian Eclection

At Viridian Eclection, we curate objects that highlight craftsmanship, design history, and the quiet beauty of well-made pieces from the past. Small accessories like this brocade evening purse offer a glimpse into the materials and aesthetics that defined mid-century fashion and decorative arts.