Beaded Bag

This beaded bag showcases an intricate design featuring a silver purse bracket embellished with engravings of garlands and vases. Crafted with precision, the piece includes a hallmark for 833 silver and the master's mark of Jacob Dirk Ludwig, active between 1817 and 1859. Originating from Utrecht, the bag includes a date mark indicating its creation in 1819. The silver bag hook is a later addition, with hallmarking dated to 1864, indicating a thoughtful update to its functionality while maintaining its historical integrity.

Condition Report

The beaded bag remains in good condition, with wear consistent with its age and historical use. The silver elements, including the purse bracket and the hook, display a natural patina characteristic of antique silver, which adds to its authenticity. The engraving remains distinct, although there is some expected softening of detail in areas of high use. The beaded fabric shows signs of gentle wear, with some beads missing or loose, typical of a piece of this age. The structural integrity of the bag is intact, with its clasp mechanism functioning as intended.

Dimensions

Weight: 305gm, Length: 16.5cm, Width: 1cm, Height: 18.5cm, with hook 31.5cm.

A Fashion Accessory of Elegance

The primary use of this beaded bag was as a fashionable accessory, complementing the attire of the sophisticated individual during the early 19th century. Such bags were often carried to social gatherings and served as both practical items for carrying personal items and as symbols of style. The addition of the silver purse bracket with its intricate engravings elevated the bag's status, making it suitable for formal occasions and social functions.

Empire Style Elegance

The design of the beaded bag is a fine example of the Empire style, which was prevalent during the early 19th century. This style is characterised by its emphasis on classical elements, such as the garlands and vases engraved on the silver bracket. The use of 833 silver and intricate beading reflects the luxurious materials and elaborate designs typical of the period. The Empire style often drew inspiration from Roman and Greek antiquity, which is evident in the symmetry and motifs present in this piece, indicating a taste for refined and structured aesthetics.

The Craft of Beadwork and Silversmithing

The beaded bag is a testament to the skilled craftsmanship of the early 19th century, combining the art of beadwork with expert silversmithing. The bag's intricate beadwork involved meticulously threading tiny beads to create a uniform and decorative surface, a painstaking process requiring precision and patience. The silver purse bracket was crafted by the accomplished silversmith Jacob Dirk Ludwig, whose hallmark is visible on the piece. His work involved engraving detailed motifs onto the silver, a technique that required both artistic skill and technical expertise. The later addition of the silver hook highlights the adaptability and continued use of the piece over time.

Crafted by the Renowned Silversmith, Jacob Dirk Ludwig

The beaded bag's silver elements were crafted by Jacob Dirk Ludwig, a noted silversmith active in Utrecht from 1817 to 1859. Ludwig was known for his meticulous attention to detail and the quality of his work. His pieces often featured intricate engravings, as seen in the garlands and vases on this bag's silver bracket. His hallmark, the 'crown' with the letter L, is a mark of authenticity and quality. Ludwig's work is sought after by collectors for its historical significance and the artisanal techniques employed in its creation, which were renowned in 19th-century Dutch silverwork.

Collected by Enthusiasts of Early 19th Century Accessories

Collectors are drawn to early 19th-century accessories such as this beaded bag due to their historical value and the craftsmanship they represent. These items offer a glimpse into the fashion and social customs of the era, providing context to the lives of those who used them. The combination of beadwork and silverwork is particularly appealing to collectors interested in the development of personal adornments and their evolution over time. Pieces by known makers like Jacob Dirk Ludwig are especially prized for their documented provenance and the insight they provide into the silversmithing techniques of the period. Enthusiasts appreciate the balance of beauty and functionality in such accessories, making them desirable additions to any collection.