Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
A shimmering mid-century evening bag featuring a rhythmic wavy pattern of white seed beads and silver-tone bugle beads. This piece exemplifies the high-quality hand-beading that made Hong Kong a global hub for formal accessories in the post-war era.
Story
By the late 1950s, Hong Kong had transformed into the world's 'bead capital,' producing thousands of these hand-stitched treasures. Artisans used traditional techniques to create high-fashion looks that defined the mid-century cocktail era.
Maker / Origin
These were often produced in small, family-run workshops in Hong Kong's Sham Shui Po district. While many lack a designer label, the level of hand-stitched detail often rivals the French couture houses they were meant to emulate.
Condition & Value
The exterior beadwork appears largely intact, though the interior satin lining shows significant age-related staining. The silver-tone frame and kiss-lock closure show light surface wear consistent with age. Staining reduces the value by approximately 25%.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.