Edwardian Sterling Silver Mesh Purse by R. Blackinton & Co.
Jewelry / Fashion Accessory (Mesh Purse) · R. Blackinton & Co., North Attleboro, Massachusetts. Established in 1862, they were renowned for high-quality jewelry and novelty items, maintaining a reputation for fine craftsmanship alongside Tiffany and Gorham.
Pattern: Standard Mesh Pattern (Engraved Frame Collection), early 20th century production.
Type
Jewelry / Fashion Accessory (Mesh Purse)
Maker
R. Blackinton & Co., North Attleboro, Massachusetts. Established in 1862, they were renowned for high-quality jewelry and novelty items, maintaining a reputation for fine craftsmanship alongside Tiffany and Gorham.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The item consists of a solid sterling silver frame and a flexible chain-link mesh body.
Dimensions
Estimated at 3.5 to 5 inches in width. Total weight typically ranges between 80g and 150g depending on the density of the mesh.
Description
A classic example of American Edwardian silversmithing, this R. Blackinton & Co. sterling silver mesh purse displays the delicate elegance of turn-of-the-century evening wear. The flexible mesh drapes like fabric and is secured to a sturdy, hallmarked sterling frame. These bags were essential status symbols for fashionable women of the era.
Key Features
R. Blackinton 'B-sword' maker's mark; fine-gauge sterling mesh; 'Sterling' purity stamp; characteristic Edwardian frame profile.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The item consists of a solid sterling silver frame and a flexible chain-link mesh body.
Finish & Decoration
The frame features a soft satin patina with visible tarnish. The mesh is machine-linked with a polished finish. The frame is slightly arched with a kiss-lock closure.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The frame is stamped with 'STERLING', the 'B' with a sword through it (the R. Blackinton & Co. trademark), and a design number or hallmark cluster including a possible date letter or pattern code.
Construction Details
The frame is die-struck and hand-finished. The mesh body is composed of hundreds of individual interlocking silver rings, typically machine-soldered or pressure-closed. The mesh is attached to the frame via a series of small loops or a wire track.
Functional Features
Kiss-lock / snap closure mechanism. Integrated rings on the top of the frame suggest it originally had a finger-ring chain or wrist strap attached.
Handle & Grip Details
Originally would have featured a fine silver chain with a finger ring or a larger wrist loop. The current image shows only the frame and mesh body.
Craftsmanship Details
The frame shows high-quality die-striking. The mesh attachment indicates hand-assembly where the fabric of silver meets the rigid metal frame.
Authentication Indicators
The 'B' with sword mark is the primary authenticator for R. Blackinton & Co. The 'Sterling' stamp is consistent with early 20th-century American standards. Wear patterns on the hinge and interior of the frame are consistent with age.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in the United States, North Attleboro, Massachusetts—a historical hub for American silver and jewelry manufacturing.
Era & Period
Edwardian / Art Nouveau transition (circa 1900-1915). This was the peak era for metal mesh bags as evening accessories for the modern woman.
Age Estimate
Circa 1905-1915 based on the style of the Blackinton hallmark and the popularity of small sterling mesh change purses during this decade.
Cultural Significance
Represented the shifting role of women in the early 20th century; as women became more mobile in society, small 'handbags' became necessary for coins, dance cards, and personal items.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Significant tarnish is present on the frame and mesh. There is a visible gap or detachment where the mesh meets the frame on the left side, a common stress point. Some rings in the mesh appear stretched.
Value Estimate
$150 - $350 USD. Value depends on the weight of the silver, the integrity of the mesh (no holes), and the presence of the original chain.
Care & Maintenance
Gently clean with a soft-bristled brush and mild soap to remove debris from mesh links. Use a specialized silver cloth for the frame. Avoid 'dipping' solutions which can get trapped inside the links and cause corrosion.
Similar Pieces
Whiting & Davis mesh bags (often silver-plated or 'Armor Mesh'), Gorham sterling coin purses (often more ornate repoussé), or Tiffany & Co. mesh bags (higher luxury tier).
Interesting Facts
Mesh bags became wildly popular after the Whittingham machine was invented in 1909, which mechanized the creation of the mesh that previously had to be linked entirely by hand.