Photo Credit: jewelry-halfprice
French Pre-WWI 18K Gold Mesh Purse
Buy It Now Price: $2,067.06 (price as of 2019; item no longer available)
Pros:
-This opulent solid 18 karat gold mesh purse is from the French Belle Époque, a period of European culture and artistic dominance between 1870 and 1914.
-This pre-World War I French gold mesh purse measures 3 inches (7.6 cm) long by 2 inches (5.1 cm) wide. Even though it is fairly compact, the purse weighs a heavy 35.8 grams (1.15 troy ounces) due to its solid 18 karat gold composition.
-This French gold mesh purse is in the Louis XV style, which was characterized by elegant ribbonwork, garland and fluting. The Louis XV style first gained popularity during the late 18th century, but then experienced a revival during the late 19th century. For those who are interested, I recently featured a charming set of Louis XV style French silver liquor cups that have many features in common with this mesh purse.
-This elegant French antique has period appropriate hallmarks. It has been stamped (twice) with the Mercury head hallmark, indicating it was made in France, but then exported abroad. This hallmark also guarantees a gold purity of at least .750 fine, or 18 karats.
-Dating a piece like this can be a bit tricky due to its use of a revival style, but I believe this gold mesh purse is from the late 19th or early 20th century. In any case, I am certain we are dealing with a pre-World War I antique.
-The delicate ribbon and fluting decorative motif covers not only the outside of the rim, where it is easily visible, but also the inside of the rim, where it is less visible. This is a sure sign of quality.
-With a current gold spot price of $1,290, this antique French purse has a melt value of just over $1,100. This means the purse’s asking price is only 85% over its bullion value, which is quite reasonable in light of the item’s superb craftsmanship and age.
-This French gold mesh purse is in perfect condition, with no damage or visible wear! Antique metal mesh purses are prone to developing snags and holes over the decades, so finding a pristine example is always exciting.
-$2,000+ might seem like a lot of money, but I assure you this sublime treasure is a worthy investment. I would not be surprised if in future decades people talked wistfully about the days when you could own such a superlative piece for less than $10,000!
Cons:
-This gold mesh purse has a maker’s mark (initials: R.G.), but I have been unable to identify this goldsmith yet. Determining the artist who created this masterpiece would increase its desirability.
Read more fascinating Antique Sage miscellaneous spotlight posts here.
-or-
Read in-depth Antique Sage investment guides here.
