Reticule

The leather handbag was first introduced in about 1815 in the form of an envelope with a flap fastening and metal catch, rather similar to the eighteenth century leather pocket book but with a handle. Many were ornamented with metal plaques, or tortoiseshell or ivory panels. This bag contains a letter with the watermark BATH 1819, addressed to Mrs Kennedy, Capel Street, which reads 'May I request My dear Mrs Kennedys acceptance of this small Christmas tribute - and wishing you many happy returns of the day. I remain very very affectionately M. Hamilton Christmas Day'.