This is a spectacular and rare piece: a rare theorem purse from the early 19th century. Theorem painting was popular among the women of the time, using a series of stencils to paint a design – usually floral -- on white velvet. This purse has it all, from its unusual boat shape to its vibrant colored flowers to its neat green silk ribbon bows. Very good condition; white velvet has yellowed and there are a few stains; ribbons are slightly worn. Measures 7 5/8” wide.

A magnificent English hussif, or housewife, constructed from diamond-shaped felt pieces of military uniforms, circa 1860. A hussif was a long roll of material with pockets which a soldier used to store items like buttons, thread, needles, pins and button cleaner sticks. The work on this hussif is incredible: each felt piece is outlined in and decorated with brightly colored beads. The hussif is divided into six pocket sections...

An 18th century green velvet gaming purse embroidered in raised silver metallic thread. Figures include a red Maltese cross; two clasped hands within a snake eating its tail; a wreath; a lion; and various initials. The bottom consists of metallic leaves. Bag is lacking its lining and lacking draw-string; it has several darned repairs below the opening; embroidery to the lion is worn. Measures 7” by 8 1/2”.

Superb and rare antique needlework pocket on canvas, probably Pennsylvania Dutch, dated 1852. 18th and 19th century pockets took the place of purses; they tied at the waist under skirts and aprons and held anything from keys to money to sewing supplies. The contents were accessed by a vertical slit at the front. This is an amazing piece of folk art: the cross stitch motifs include a stag lying beneath a tree, hearts, flowers initials, and a dog. The header, back and lining are plain linen...

Terrific 17th century French embroidered miter-shaped purse. The purse is constructed of green silk, embroidered with flowers and a central device in silver metallic thread; the edging is metallic as well. Good condition for its age; the central silver device has substantial losses; the green silk has a few areas of wear; there’s some soiling to the embroidery. Measures 6 by 5 1/2”.

Wonderful school girl linen work bag, decorated with ink drawing of flowers and leaves, and signed “Sally Poors”. Probably American, late 18th or early 19th century. Fabric is foxed and stained, with one split. But considering its delicacy, it’s a fabulous piece of early school decorative arts. Measures 10 1/2”.

A pair of 18th century embroidered garters, similar in style to the Jerusalem garters worn by 17th century pilgrims. Linen tape embroidered with colored silk thread, with crocheted ends and knotted fringes...

Beautiful 18th century netted lace stitch purse, in dark green and gold metallic thread. Amazing condition considering its age; some fraying to metallic thread on piping. Measures 4 5/8” by 4”.

A dramatic 18th Century pouch, probably for tobacco, comprising scarlet twill ornately embroidered with silk threads in an exotic flowerhead and bow design, further detailed with metallic passing and plate threads, and braid. Very good condition. Measures 10 1/2” by 7 7/8”.

Charming Georgian schoolgirl silk needlework picture of a young girl and her spaniel. The girl is holding out her hand to the little dog, which stands on its hind legs. The detail is incredible: from the little dog, to the window with trees beyond, to the rug with vari-colored squares, to the girl’s dress and blue sash, it’s all beautifully done. Very good condition; there’s a slight sheen to the girl’s face where the weave may have begun to wear. Later frame and backing...

An 18th century shield shaped velvet purse with couched metal thread embroidery. Vibrant pink lining, silk drawstring and tassel. Very good condition; a few minor spots of wear; one side seam partially undone. Measures 6 3/4” by 5 1/4”.

An early 19th century needlework landscape scene, featuring a thatched cottage by a river. The scene is filled with wonderful details: there’s a dog in front of the house, a bridge over the river and swans a swimming. And on the opposite bank, there’s a shepherd playing a flute to his sheep! The picture is set in a gilt gessoed frame, which exhibits losses – chips, scratches, cracks. The needlework is in perfect condition and the colors are wonderfully fresh.