Is this beaded purse from the 1930s?

[Vlk94]

Hi everyone! I was browsing a thrift stores website, and I was just curious about this bag. Its so much fun. I don't know much about bags, but I think its from the 30's? This is the only picture they have. It doesn't seem to be in the best of condition, but I'm still quite curious. Thanks!

 

[Circa Vintage Clothing]

Nice purse: it's from the '50s or '6os. With beaded purses, try to only buy in good condition as repairing beadwork is time consuming and fiddly.

 

[Vlk94]

Thanks! I'm surprised beaded purses aren't more popular. I think they're fantastic.

 

[poppysvintageclothing]

They are lovely but you can't get much in them!!!

 

[cmpollack]

Love the swirling design on that; it echoes the shape of the purse very nicely!

 

[Pinkcoke]

Do they say if the clasp is set with glass or stones? I can just make out the pointed shape to the kiss clasp which does rather lo0k like that I had on this 1930's bag: https://www.etsy.com/uk/transaction/145132598?

 

[Vlk94]

I agree I love the swirls, and colors with the shape, as well! It reminds me of a shell.

They say: "This great vintge piece unique in design in shape is perfect for the vintage buff! With cream beads and a mint scroll design it measures 8" in length and 5 1/2" in height. Made by Josef with sateen material inside in "like new" condition with a silver clasp and hand chain." Its for sale the Value Village Wisconsin website. Which is always fun to browse.

 

[cmpollack]

Too bad there's no picture of the interior--the label and what the "sateen" material look like would help nail the era. (I still see it, at this point, as 50s/60s).

Though Joseph Newman, the founder of Josef handbags, apparently began making purses in the late 1920s, the "Josef" label seems to be a later thing; according to USPTO, it was first used in commerce in 1939 (there's a second entry with the name in block letters but all the other info identical):

Word Mark JOSEF
Goods and Services (EXPIRED) IC 018. US 003. G & S: LADIES' HANDBAGS. FIRST USE: 19391231. FIRST USE IN COMMERCE: 19391231
Mark Drawing Code (5) WORDS, LETTERS, AND/OR NUMBERS IN STYLIZED FORM
Serial Number 72158337
Filing Date December 3, 1962
Current Basis 1A
Original Filing Basis 1A
Registration Number 0757085
Registration Date September 24, 1963
Owner (REGISTRANT) ARISTOCRAT LEATHER PRODUCTS, INC. CORPORATION NEW YORK 302 5TH AVE. NEW YORK NEW YORK
Assignment Recorded ASSIGNMENT RECORDED
Type of Mark TRADEMARK
Register PRINCIPAL
Affidavit Text SECT 15.
Live/Dead Indicator DEAD

 

[Vlk94]

Hmm, I'm even more curious now. I'd buy it if it was in better condition I'd just buy it. I think I'll email them, and ask if they have any other pictures. I doubt it, but it can't hurt.