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Purse

last quarter 16th century
Not on view
Elaborately embroidered purses such as this example were known as "sweet bags" and were used to carry scented herbs or essences to cover unpleasant odors.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Purse
  • Date: last quarter 16th century
  • Culture: British
  • Medium: silk, gold, silver, linen
  • Credit Line: Purchase, Judith and Gerson Leiber Fund, 1986
  • Object Number: 1986.300.1
  • Curatorial Department: The Costume Institute

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