Small pear shaped purse of faded purple leather embroidered with silver gilt and silver thread and metal cord and couched purl work with some padding. The purse, which is in two halves, is lined with purple silk and has a semi circular metal clasp at the top which opens with a spring controlled metal knob in the shape of a flower. The edges are bound with metal thread braid. Both sides of the purse are decorated with a solid border pattern of flower heads. In the centre of one side is a vase of flowers, in the centre of the other is a crowned monogram. Purse of embroidered leather, England, 1660-1680 Object Type
A clasped frame, or 'snap-hance', closes this densely embroidered purse. The leather, now faded, was once a deep purple. The very heavy metal threads and purl (short lengths of metal thread curled tightly together like a minute spring) delineate a vase of flowers on one side and an indecipherable monogram on the other.

Use
This type of fastening, more secure than a drawstring, may indicate that the purse was intended to hold money. In the 17th century gifts of coin were frequently presented in elaborately decorated purses. Such a container added considerable value to the present made, as well as disguising its mercenary nature. British Galleries: PURSE AND PIN CUSHIONS
By 1680 women used fewer pins when getting dressed. These pin cushions are much smaller than those used around 1600. The dense, metal thread embroidery also leaves little room for pins. Some contemporary writers mocked the variety of luxury trinkets to be found in a lady's dressing room. [27/03/2003]