Vintage Judith Lieber Gold Plated Sunflower Minaudiere Bag

Judith Leiber, known for her minaudieres, designed these "little treasures" in a variety of ways. Many were figural in shape and covered with different colored Swarovski crystals. However, she also designed a line of solid metal small bags that had patterns of repousee relief. They came in gold or silver tone. This particular minaudiere has a combination of both gold and silver tone, although its appearance is gold tone. Upon careful inspection the repousee work is predominantly done in silver tone while the background is a textured gold tone. There is very little background, most of the purse is the raised work. This creates an extra shiny effect. The molded repousee relief is a pattern of flowers and leaves. There are sunflowers and many swirls. The repousee is significantly raised. The purse itself has a somewhat cylinder shape and is long and narrow. The purse closes with a push down gold tone clasp. There is a jewelry quality chain with a drop of 13". A early version of Leibers optional mechanism allowing the chain to be tucked inside is inside the purse. The inside is lined in a gold tone kid leather. The inside is divided into two sections. The purse is an "oldie but goodie". Judith Leiber's signature is not on a panel but is inscribed directly on the leather. There also is a stamped label stating "Judith Leiber for Bonwit Teller." The absence of the gold tone panel is evidence that this is a very early Leiber bag. Leiber continued to make this style but I have never seen one with both silver and gold tones. The inside shows minor usage and age. The measurements are 5 1/2"w x 31/4"h x 1 1/2"d. The purse is in great shape. There is minor tarnish on the bottom by the hinge. This is a classically designed little purse that is timeless and elegant. It goes with everything and is not too much. It is smart and sophisticated.

5.5" x 1" x 2.5"

18%

Rich Monaco II | (203) 627-7651 | theauctionaut@gmail.com

Pickup Details

Private Residence

Branford, CT 06405

When to Pickup

Saturday, 5/2, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm

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