Coin purse

Art Historical Context

This delicate coin purse, crafted in Mexico around 1790, the refined accessories of late colonial New Spain. During this era, under Spanish rule, personal items like these were essential for women of means, blending functionality with elegance to securely hold coins while complementing elaborate dress ensembles. Its presence in the Costume Institute highlights how such objects offer intimate glimpses into daily life and social customs of the time. Made from a luxurious combination of glass beads, linen, silk, and metal, the purse showcases skilled handcraftsmanship typical of Mexican textile traditions. The shimmering glass likely forms intricate beadwork patterns, while silk provides a soft, opulent texture, and metal accents—perhaps clasps or embellishments—add durability and a touch of formality. These materials reflect access to both local weaving expertise and imported European goods, underscoring Mexico's vibrant trade networks. As part of the Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection now at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, this anonymous artwork preserves a slice of 18th-century fashion history, inviting us to appreciate the artistry in everyday elegance.