Advice on this 1920's beaded Czech bag

MyVintageCocktail

MyVintageCocktail

VFG Member
Advice on this 1920\'s beaded Czech bag

I need to make a small repair on this 1920's beaded Czech bag before listing (restitch part of one side to the frame). Otherwise it is in outstanding, sound shape, but for a bit of soiling on the lining, which is thick cotton, and tarnishing to the outside of the frame. The frame is, I think, silverplate. Do you think I should attempt to spot clean the interior and/or polish the outside of the frame. Or leave as is? Do you expect the age patina when you buy a bag of this age? The frame is really lovely, repousse work, and I wouldn't want to either harm it by cleaning, or hide it by not cleaning.... Thanks!

czechbag.jpg


czechbaglabel.jpg
 
It doesn't hurt to put in a stitch to stop the bag pulling further away, but l wouldn't attempt anything like cleaning the silver, or spot cleaning the lining myself.

I would do this myself or take it to a restorer, most often l leave a sis, as it adds to the HI-story of the piece. Some bag collectors are purists and wouldn't want anything restored or touched. I use many of bags from time to time, but these older purses, I dont use I just adore and get my enjoyment form looking and owning them and writing about them, when have the time on the new blog...sharing them and their hi-stories with other aficionados!

Let me know when you have this bag up..l may be interested.
 
Thank you, Sara, for your input. I really didn't want to attempt cleaning, but wasn't sure how the value would be affected. A couple of rows of beads have pulled loose from the frame, and I think it would be better to refasten them. I can do this pretty readily, by passing the new thread under the existing stitching on the frame, which is still intact, and tying off (discreetly, of course!). I have old age-discolored thick thread that is a pretty good match for the one on this. I fear bead loss from handling if I don't retack these. Right now there is no loss of beads.

I'm not sure what pricing to put on this, but I'll list it once I finish my research. And will let you know! As always, discounts to VFG members and registered friends!
 
It's possible it could be German Silver, a nickle based metal. No need to clean it. Are the beads glass? Czech glass is getting harder & harder to find and more valuable by the sec!
 
KK, I thought that German silver is always marked? If not, I guess it could be.... And, yes, the beads are glass. At least I'm pretty sure they are. I'll have to take another look; I assumed they were, based on the age of the bag and the feel of the beads, but I'll double check. Thanks!
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top