This curiously collectable and intriguingly designed bag with Art Nouveau/Japonisme influences probably dates from the early 20th century, or possibly even the late 19th century. The suede-like eau de Nil coloured fabric is soft to the touch and beautifully hand painted with symbolic images including a butterfly, a pagoda and Japanese landscape scenes.
The closure of the bag features silver floral details and a silver clasp. There are two large outer pockets, as well as an outer butterfly purse with a silver clip closure. Inside there are further pockets, housing a small removable hand painted purse, a silver pill or snuff box, and a small silver topped perfume bottle.
The bag measures 10 inches (25.4 cm) wide by 5.9 inches (15 cm) high and is in very good antique condition.