The beautiful diversity of high-quality vintage purses is presented through a friendly and informative text and 522 beautiful color photographs. Chosen from among the leading private dealer and museum collections, these primarily nineteenth and twentieth century purses are among the finest glass-beaded metal, tapestry, embroidered, plastic, and home-crafted examples known. The book includes histories of the leading manufacturers such as Bliss, Napier, Whiting & Davis and Mandalian along with catalogs, advertising, trade, cards, and original drawings which anchor the purses in their respective periods. This book will delight all fashion enthusiasts. The price guide reflects the collectors' market today.