1920s Whiting & Davis Art Deco Blue Enamel Mesh Purse MRS Couture

Elegant 1920s Whiting and Davis evening purse! This gorgeous enamel mesh purse features a pressed art deco sunburst clasp painted in alternating black and blue enamel. The mesh body of the purse has a vertical geometric blue, green, and black design, with horizontal scalloped detail and painted fringe that cleverly imitates the shape of older mesh bags from the turn of the century. The purse has a figure eight infinity chain, and sharp scalloped bottom that dangles freely.

4.5″ Drop

Whiting & Davis was established as Wade, Davis and Co. in 1876. In 1892 Whiting and Davis created their first mesh handbag, and in 1912, after automating the mesh weaving process, Whiting & Davis expanded considerably, overshadowing their competitors with a wide variety of mesh woven handbags and accessories. Whiting & Davis has been a stalwart presence throughout the 20th century, partnering with couturier Paul Poiret in the 1920s, collaborating with designer Elsa Schiaparelli in the 1930s, and joining the war effort in the 1940s.

Whiting & Davis spearheaded the flashy cocktail jewelry trend of the 1950s, created jewelry for Elizabeth Taylor in her leading role in 1963’s Cleopatra, and were also tremendously popular with the 1970s disco crowd because of the slinky, sensual quality of their mesh. Michael Jackson’s 1983 “Beat It” jacket featured Whiting and Davis mesh on the shoulders; finally, in the 1990s, Whiting & Davis worked alongside numerous designers including Marc Jacobs and Anthony Ferrara.

Whiting and Davis fan’s of note include Mamie Eisenhower, Rebecca Romijn, and Lady Gaga.

Oh also, they make chain mail shark suits – amazing!