Purse

Many varieties of purse were made in the 18th century, including framed purses using the new types of alloy which simulated gold, known in England as pinchbeck after its inventor. The metal mount of this spade-shaped purse, which has a snap-fastening device, might be a pinchbeck. The purse is made of linen embroidered with metal purl, silver and gold thread and coloured silk in laid and couched work and French knots. The edges are decorated with a thick braid of gold strip, purl and chain. One one side of the purse is a lady in the character of Diana the Huntress, with a stag behind her, and on the other side is a gentleman holding a gun with a wild boar at his feet.