So beautifully preserved is this swingy double set of antique red silk miser’s purse or bag with decorative looped fringe of cut steel beads, circa 1900.

Also known as a beggar’s bag, the charming purses consist of a deep burgundy colored silk knit with rows of faceted cut steel beads, along with looped fringe along the fold over flap and bottom – with extended knit cords connecting the two bags along with a slider ring.

To open either bag, simply lift the flap and gently pull the knit threads through as shown in pic (see pic 4).  Then pull the threads back to tighten and close the opening.

Each bag measures approximately 2 inches wide by 3&1/4 inches long (including fringe) and the piece in its entirety measures approximately 15&1/4 inches in length total, from bag end to bag end.