Lovely little bag with intricate macramé designs, including an elaborate twist handle. Two side tassels and fringe to bottom.

May have been part of mourning wear or to signify allegiance with the Suffragette Movement. Would make a great purse for anyone engaged in period balls or dancing. Would also suit an Edwardian or Flapper bride on her wedding day, or a wedding guest.

A very similar cream coloured bag (see last pic) is housed in the Waterford County Museum, made by an Irish Republican Volunteer while interred by the British authorities, c. 1921 http://blog.waterfordmuseum.ie/2016/11/object-of-week-macrame-bag.html.

In excellent, sturdy condition for an object over 100 years old—the tassels have been carefully combed and the only flaw is some fading and discolouration to the violet colour in places. I should note that the purple is not quite as vivid as my camera portrays in some of the pics, but it is still a strong violet.

Measures approximately: 8” length, not inclusive of 3.5” fringe and 7.5 handle x 6” wide (pictured in one photo with an iPhone 8 to show scale).

Sourced in Ireland and likely Irish-made.