Purse

Object number2007.53.1 a,b

Date1902

MediumElephant skin; Silver

Credit LineGift of Martha G. Lewis

DescriptionBlack elephant skin purse with silver frame and knob closure; single silver chain strap. Frame embossed with wavy design on both sides of purse; chain links in shape of flowers. Inside lined with beige(?) soft leather, with one pocket on each side. Dimensions9.5 x 6.625 in. (24.1 x 16.8 cm)
InscriptionsInside frame inscribed, proper left: "MARY P. BIGELOW PITTSBURG. PA.".
MarksProper right: "[designer symbols] STERLING 1547 4 OCT 1902".
Historical NotesAn elephant hide purse presented to Mary Peabody Bigelow. Mrs. Bigelow was the wife of Edward Manning Bigelow (1850-1916), celebrated engineer and the "father of Pittsburgh parks". Donor Martha G. Lewis apparently received this purse from a family member who was a caretaker for the Bigelows.

Previous owner Mary Peabody Bigelow

Related person Edward Manning Bigelow

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