About this work
At the beginning of the nineteenth century the bag became an indispensable decorative accessory as the simplicity of the neoclassical silhouette prevented pockets from being hidden under full skirts. These delicate silk bags were known as reticules, possibly drawn from the Latin term reticulum which described small net bags from Roman times. A drawstring cord functioned to both fasten the bag and as its handle. The surface of Bag, dated between 1820 and 1850, is worked in pinched appliquéd cloth joined by embroidered stalks linking the flowers’ sprays.
Artwork Details
Place/s of Execution
(England)
Accession Number
D33-1978
Department
International Fashion and Textiles
This digital record has been made available on NGV Collection Online through the generous support of Professor AGL Shaw AO Bequest
Physical description
Brown satin, embroidered with silk thread and ribbon. Drawstring of silk and chenille tassels. Pale pink lining. May have originally been black satin.