Preliminary identification

French Hand-Beaded Evening Bag for the Virgin Islands Market, c. 1955

Photo reference

4 uploaded photos

Overview

This is a quintessential mid-century French beaded evening bag, featuring intricate black micro-beading in a classic fan motif.

Story

In the post-WWII era, France reclaimed its title as the world's capital of luxury, and these hand-beaded bags were the ultimate souvenir for the burgeoning jet-set crowd.

Maker / Origin

While the specific retailer's name is partially faded, the 'Hand Made in France' label signifies a tradition of 'broderie' (embroidery) that dates back centuries.

Condition & Value

The exterior beadwork appears remarkably intact with no obvious 'runs' or missing patches. The interior satin shows some light staining and fading to the gold-stamped retailer mark, which is common for its age. The metal frame and rhinestones appear bright and secure.

Full Research

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

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.

Value Drivers

▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps

Regional auction

· Jun 2024

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD