1920s/1930s Crocodile Skin Handbag
Description
This crocodile handbag stands out for its slim, rectangular shape - this reflects the neat and compact handbag styles fashionable during the 1920s and 1930s, as compared to the larger, more classic designs which we see in crocodile bags of the 1940s to 1960s. The other key feature of this particular item is the ridged, bumpy texture of the skin, which runs up the centre of the bag, continuing down the back and over onto the interior (which clearly incorporates the tail of the crocodile). The areas at either side of the ridged skin are formed by smoother and glossier scales in a rich, deep brown colour. A close examination of the front and back of the bag reveals where sections of skin have been neatly joined together. The handle is also formed from crocodile skin; we particularly like its design, which can be flattened to turn the bag into a clutch style, or extended if a carrying handle is preferred. The bag has also been neatly edged with plaited strips of dark-coloured leather. A concealed, silvertone metal press-stud secures the front flap - lifting this reveals an interior incorporating various compartments and pockets. The central compartment is secured with a silvertone metal zip with blue fabric edging; we notice the trade name on the zip is 'Flash', and that it was 'Made in England'. Either side of this compartment are two open sections, one of which is fitted with a flat side pocket. There is also a slim pocket at the back of the crocodile tail section - this has been given a dipped front, and the visible section behind has been finished with a strip of crocodile skin.
Manufacturer: Unsigned
Country of manufacture:
Not stated
Product ref: B207 - SOLD
Condition
Very Good. The crocodile skin which forms this unusual handbag is in very attractive condition, as it shows surprisingly few signs of its age. The ridged areas display a soft sheen, whilst the darker-coloured scales have a glossier appearance, and retain a smooth finish. There are a couple of minor blemishes within the ridged skin on the back of the bag, and small touches of wear to a few of the smoother scales - however, the latter are not easily noticeable, and the skin is well-preserved overall. The crocodile skin which forms the handle is robust, and the handle has an attractive appearance either when in its flattened or extended versions. The outer ends of the handle have been glued to the top of the bag at some point in the past, as we can see a little glue residue. Both ends of the handle are also stitched to the bag, ensuring that it is firmly attached. When we closely examine the rows of small stitches along the edges of the handle, we notice that the stitches are no longer present in some areas; the layers of the handle would appear to have been glued together, but this time without leaving any residue. These renovations have preserved both the strength and attractive appearance of the handle. The leather plaiting which runs along the edges of the bag is sturdy and unbroken. The crocodile tail section is in impressive condition, presumably helped by its concealment under the bag flap. The interior of the bag is clean, and shows only very minor (use-related) marking. The zip opens and closes smoothly and efficiently, and the press-stud snaps shut tightly and securely.
Material: Crocodile skin
Measurements: w:230mm x h:145mm x d:40mm. Plus handle drop of 80mm (when fully extended)
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