This is a wonderful example of an enamel mesh Flapper purse by Whiting & Davis, one of the most well-known and highly regarded makers of these fabulous purses of the Roaring Twenties.  This type of purse was popular in the 1920s and 30s and in fact, is very similar to an enameled mesh purse shown in a Whiting & Davis advertisement in Jeweler's Circular of October 26, 1926.

The geometric design reflects the Art Deco era just coming into popularity in the late 1920s to 1930s.  Individual enameled blocks of mesh in turquoise, white, and black make up the bag design and alternating black and turquoise completes the purse fringe.  It’s quite eye catching and the design is very much of the Flapper Era.

The frame is gunmetal, rather than bright silver, though some of the dark finish is worn near the clasp.  The original hang tag remains inside.   All the mesh is intact and attached securely with no holes present in either the purse or the fringe.  There is very minor loss of enameling near the hinges where it is difficult to see.  There is another area along an edge where some white enamel is worn but due to the black in the overall pattern it is difficult to see.  The twisted link chain is secure and in fine condition and twist claps is secure but not extremely tightly.

This wonderful vintage Whiting & Davis enamel mesh purse measures 5” wide and 7” long, including fringe.