Monkeys & Dragon Japanese Embroidered Purse

Description

This purse is Japanese, Meiji period, about 1880’s. It measures 6 x 9 inches (without chain).

The body of the purse is embroidery, done in silk. Built-up satin stitch combined with French knots (called Peking stitch in Asia). The ornate hand made frame is very heavy sterling silver. Each side of the frame matches the embroidery. One side is the three monkeys (see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil). The other side of the frame is a three-dimensional dragon. This comes from Japanese mythology, the dragon flies through the clouds, and is chasing the flaming pearl.

Collection of Arlene Rabin

Details

Date: 1880's

Materials: Sterling Silver Frame, Peking Stitch

Provenance/Origin: Japanese

Designer/Maker: Unknown

Markings: Unknown

Dimensions: 6 x 9

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