1920s Whiting and Davis Floral Enamel Gold Art Deco Mesh Purse
View Similar Items
1920s Whiting and Davis Floral Enamel Gold Art Deco Mesh Purse
About the Item
- Brand:
- Dimensions:Height: 7.25 in (18.42 cm)Width: 4.5 in (11.43 cm)Diameter: 0.25 in (6.35 mm)
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Condition:
- Seller Location:Houston, TX
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU10322339303
Whiting & Davis
You might not expect chain-mesh bags to predate sliced bread by three decades, but it’s true. The very first mesh purse was created by Charles Whiting (1864–1940) in 1892 while working for the jewelry manufacturer Wade Davis & Company in Plainville, Massachusetts. Whiting joined the company at the age of 16, and by 1896 he formed a partnership to purchase it, renaming it the Whiting & Davis Company.
While the original Whiting & Davis mesh purse was made entirely by hand — artisans hammered out the links and wove them together — the company developed a machine to automate fabrication in 1912. With the ability to produce more rapidly and prolifically, Whiting & Davis became a veritable mesh empire, creating handbags and purses in all shapes, styles and colors, including ones made from precious metals, painted with Art Deco designs and silk-screened with Impressionistic images. The purses became status icons for the stylish elite, particularly with the flappers of the 1920s.
Over the years, Whiting & Davis struck up partnerships with some of the most talented designers of the time, including Paul Poiret, Elsa Schiaparelli and Elsa Peretti, who used their mesh in elegant pieces for Tiffany & Co., propelling their popularity even further. After a brief hiatus during World War II, when Whiting & Davis produced radar equipment rather than handbags, the brand continued to develop an ever-expanding line of products that included clothing.
In the 1970s, Whiting & Davis accessories and clothing were the rage of the disco scene. By the early 2000s, everyone from Paris Hilton to Lady Gaga donned the brand’s mesh handbags.
Recent innovations to their offerings include color mesh and fine mesh, with the brand refocusing on fashion jewelry with the launch of a new collection in 2013 featuring a revamped vintage snake-bracelet design. The company has been based in North Attleboro, Massachusetts, since 1995, also supplying its renowned chain mesh for industrial uses like work gloves and protective applications such as shark suits for divers.
Find vintage Whiting & Davis mesh handbags, necklaces and other accessories on 1stDibs.
- Hermés Amethyste Crocodile ClutchBy HermèsLocated in New York, NYThe Hermés bag embodies the quintessence of style and luxury due to its impeccable design, craftsmanship, and significance. That being said, it is the m...Category
21st Century and Contemporary French Clutches
- Jimmy Choo Burgundy Shimmering Leather Charlize ClutchBy Jimmy ChooLocated in Dubai, Al Qouz 2Beautifully made from shimmering leather, this Jimmy Choo clutch is beyond doubts a truly fashionable addition you must gift yourself. This stylish C...Category
2010s Italian Clutches
- Louis Vuitton Dune Epi Leather Clery Pochette BagBy Louis VuittonLocated in Dubai, Al Qouz 2This beautiful Clery Pochette bag from the House of Louis Vuitton is perfect for anyone who loves versatility. It is crafted from Dune Epi leather on the exterior, with a matching LV logo attached to the front. It comes with a top handle, silver-toned hardware, and a fabric-lined interior. Elevate your style by carrying this LV bag.Category
2010s European Clutches
- Bottega Veneta Brown Leather Mini The Pouch BagBy Bottega VenetaLocated in Dubai, Al Qouz 2Designer bags are ideal companions for ample occasions! Here we have a fashion-meets-functionality piece crafted with precision. It has been equipped with a well-sized interior that ...Category
2010s Italian Clutches
- Dolce & Gabbana Black/Brown Suede And Snakeskin Leather Chain ClutchBy Dolce & GabbanaLocated in Dubai, Al Qouz 2Trust this Dolce & Gabbana clutch bag to be light, durable, and comfortable to carry. It is crafted beautifully using the best materials to be a durable style ally.Category
2010s Italian Clutches
- Dolce & Gabbana Beige/Black Leopard Print Coated Canvas DG Vanity CaseBy Dolce & GabbanaLocated in Dubai, Al Qouz 2The Dolce & Gabbana case is a luxurious and stylish accessory. It features a beige and black leopard print pattern on coated canvas, with a zip closure, and a spacious interior for s...Category
2010s Italian Clutches