Historical information

The bags multiple small pockets are reflective of a movement post 1920s wherein evening bags were designed to hold cosmetics and at times, as in the case of this purse, small mirrors. It is a notably older design, produced by Gabee Products in 1949, their first year of production, by Heinz Arnheim, a Jewish miller who had migrated from Germany to Australia ten years prior. The bag is designed according to 1930s Art Deco sentiments, with industrial metal closures, shell shaped designs and geometric patterns etched into the frame. A contrast to the larger leather bags of the 1940s and the 'current' square and box bags which Dior popularised in 1947.

Physical description

Small black suede shell shaped coin purse with marcasite tuck lock. Mount lined with 3 rows of diamantes, 9 each side. Small black suede handle attached with metal square buckle to each end. Internal of the mount marcasite etched with a chevron pattern. Lined with thick black fabric with two pockets, one pocket containing rectangular mirror. Small fabric label on left side.

Inscriptions & markings

"Gabee Products Melbourne"