Purses came in all materials during the 18th and 19th century. At the beginning of the 19th century, ladies' purses tended to be made from fabric such as silk, wool and cotton, and, for the wealthier, were often hand embroidered with elaborate designs. At the end of this century, females were starting to be a part of the industrial revolution, and, if they were lucky enough to have a job in town, maybe as a dressmaker, clerk or shop assistant,  would need a purse to keep there money safe. At this time leather was used as it was a more robust material. The poorer ladies, who did laboured work such as the mills would often use a basic drawstring purse kept under their petticoats.
 
Small folding ladies purse with metal clasp.
 
In good condition
 
Dimesions: 11cm x 7.5cm