A lovely small lady's damascene and gold metal purse to hang, dating from the early 20th century, originating from Spain. It is shaped like a medallion with a hinged domed lid on its left side. The lid is released by a button mounted in the top of the ball holder which holds a suspension ring. The interior is gilded and equipped with 2 semi-circular receptacles for two sizes of coins. The lid is damascened in 2 colours of leaves and wires. The upper and lower areas of the composition contain a single large leaf, while the centre is filled with a stereotypical wyvern (fantastic creature related to dragons) among foliage. There is considerable punch decoration in the form of arcs, corners and dots. The purse filled with coins must have been quite heavy compared to a medallion. Perhaps it was worn at the waist with a chatelaine?
This is a lovely and uncommon collector's item.
It is in very good condition (note a little wear due to rubbing on the back) and the opening mechanism works perfectly.
Dimensions: height with ring 7 cm, without ring 5.2 cm, width 3 cm, size of the 2 coin receptacles: 1.9 cm diameter and 2.3 cm diameter, weight 37.78 g.
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