Vintage 1950s Chenille Carpet Bag – Amber Bakelite-Type Frame Chunky Chain Handbag
Description
An extraordinary vintage handbag dating from approximately the late 1950s to early 1960s, with a beautifully sculptural amber-coloured frame, oversized chain handle and richly textured chenille body.
The generously sized pouch is made from plush furnishing-weight fabric arranged in a bold geometric pattern of chocolate brown, caramel, cream and muted olive green. The angular chevrons, stripes and blocks give the bag a distinctly mid-century appearance, while the soft chenille pile provides wonderful depth and texture.
Its most spectacular feature is the substantial translucent amber and tortoiseshell-effect frame. Two large marbled brown and green spheres form the dramatic kiss-lock clasp, complemented by a chunky chain handle made from graduating translucent links in shades of amber, orange, russet and olive.
The bag opens widely to reveal its original deep burgundy lining, with an internal pocket. It is a fabulous example of post-war novelty handbag design, when oversized early-plastic fittings and upholstery-inspired textiles were used to create bold, highly individual accessories.
A genuine statement bag and a wonderful collector’s piece with enormous visual impact.
Features
Original late 1950s to early 1960s handbag
Plush chenille or furnishing-fabric body
Geometric mid-century pattern
Chocolate, caramel, cream and olive colourway
Large translucent amber-coloured frame
Marbled ball kiss-lock clasp
Oversized multicoloured chain handle
Deep burgundy lining
Internal slip pocket
Generously sized pouch construction
Unmarked
Frame material untested
Please note that the frame and chain are believed to be an early moulded plastic, possibly Bakelite or Catalin, but the material has not been formally tested or authenticated.
Measurements
Maximum width of bag: 10.5"
Height excluding clasp: 10.5"
Depth: 2"
Width across frame: 7"
Total chain length: 23"
Handle drop: 11"
Diameter of clasp balls: 1"
Condition
Good vintage condition with visible age-related wear.
The chenille fabric retains its distinctive pattern and texture but has scattered brown marks and spotting, particularly across the paler cream and beige sections. There is also some pile flattening, surface wear and light discolouration consistent with age.
The burgundy lining has creasing, light marks and general wear but appears intact from the photographs. The frame and chain have minor surface scratching and age-related marks but remain wonderfully glossy. No obvious cracks are visible in the photographs. The bag has NOT been professionally cleaned.
