Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
A charming dome-shaped coin purse featuring Jim Thompson's signature Thai silk brocade pattern with blue elephants beneath palm trees. It is fitted with a leather-backed metal logo plaque bearing the distinct Jim Thompson cursive signature on the front.
Story
American spy and architect Jim Thompson single-handedly revived Thailand's dying hand-woven silk industry in the 1940s. His luxury silks became a global sensation after being featured in the film *The King and I*. In 1967, Thompson mysteriously vanished without a trace in Malaysia's Cameron Highlands, leaving behind a legend and a world-renowned silk empire.
Maker / Origin
Founded by former OSS agent James H.W. Thompson, the company transformed a centuries-old cottage industry into an international luxury brand. Thompson spent two decades organizing Thai silk weavers into cooperative cottage networks before his famous disappearance in 1967. Today, the Jim Thompson brand remains synonymous with premium Thai silk craftsmanship.
Condition & Value
Appears to be in very good pre-owned condition with clean fabric, strong structural shape, and an intact logo plate. Pristine fabric and clean interiors help small silk accessories achieve the upper end of the valuation range. Jim Thompson silk accessories enjoy a steady secondary market.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Your first full report is on us.
See sold comps, value drivers, and where to sell. One complimentary report, no card required.
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.