Antique Halloween witch Chainmail chatelaine and Purse handbag RARE 1800's

Chatelaine is a French noun, the feminine derivative of chatelain meaning "mistress of the castle". The metal mesh bag dates back to 1876. With these original haunting moons and stars that hang from this purse, I would venture to say this had something to do with a witch or someone dealing with the mysticism or the occult. A chain mail bag or purse would enable them to secretly keep small valuables, such as jewels. potions and money, close to the body. The chatelaine clip, bag and moons are all original to each other and this has not been altered. Deep gray in color, it has a very dramatic effect when you see it. From the 16th century, in addition to wearing bags on their belts, women carried their purses on chatelaines, a hook with chains on which accessories, such as keys, a knife sheath, and sewing items could be hung. The chatelaine was also a status-defining ornament and chatelaine bags became the rage around 1870 and melded beautifully with women's fashionable dresses at that time which were slim fitting. A bag or purse would enable them variously to secrete small valuables, such as jewels and money, close to the body. This one measures 12" from the top of the chatelaine to the bottom of the moons. The purse measures 7" x 4 and the chatelaine clip measures 2" long. VintageSparkles offers Layaway on all our pieces regardless of which site it comes from. Please remember that vintage & antique items are not mint, nor are they perfect but they sure are full of old history and charm. Please use photos to make your decisions and read our policies prior to buying so you can have an excellent experience with us.