Lot 23
Cartier, possibly by Jeanne Toussaint: An Art Deco velvet and diamond handbag, circa 1925
Estimate: £800 - £1,200
Auction: 23 October 2024 From 14:00 BST
Description
The black velvet exterior decorated with a rose-cut diamond tongue clasp, fed through a similarly-cut diamond rivet, the interior featuring several compartments including a removable pouch, the top strap adorned with courses of rose-cut diamonds, signed Cartier, makers' marks, French assay marks, width 19.7cm
Footnote
This rare evening bag, in the envelope style, was made by Cartier in Paris in the mid 1920s. In 1919 Louis Cartier (1875-1942) made his lover, Jeanne Toussaint (1887-1976), an employee of Cartier in their handbag department to alleviate family pressure surrounding their affair. Within Rue de la Paix, Toussaint became famous for her stylish contributions not to mention her frugal use of valuable fabrics; not an unwelcome contribution in times of economic difficulties. In 1933 she was promoted to Artistic Director focusing on high jewellery.
