Stunning Extremely Rare Early Victorian Silver & TORTOISESHELL Carved Dogs Head Mounted Ladies Purse.
 
I would estimate this rare purse dates to circa 1850 making it  nearly 170 years old,  this beautiful Victorian purse is crafted in Tortoiseshell with curved edges giving it a wonderful tactile feel, the colours  are beautiful with rich deep oranges and browns creating such a superb effect,to the front it is mounted with the most beautiful yet unique very special  carved dog head image, this is so very rare and has the most amazing detail,from the dogs very life like unusual eyes, his detailed nose and his very  beautiful long hair, I would say this must be a female dog as the dog has a  lovely bow to the top of her head, I have never seen a carved dog head like  this ever, it’s so very rare, on the other side is a solid silver cartouche,the hinges work well and I believe are a white metal, the quality of the  craftsmanship is superb, this would have once belonged to a wealthy Victorian  Lady and been used on many an occasion, many years ago when things were so very  different, this would have been a talking point as it is so unusual and rare,my photos really don't do it justice, you will not find another like this on the market
 
 
Date...Circa 1850, though maybe earlier 
Measurements....7 cm by 5 cm 
the condition for its age is lovely, just one small pin missing, there  is no clasp for closing, though it appear there never was a clasp, there is  just a little  spring back when closed, that being said it doesn’t detractat all from its  rare beauty, just mentioned for accuracy.
Please study the photos as these form an integral part of the  description. 
An unquestionably exquisite and fine addition for any uncompromising  collector or as a display piece.